New Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim can already start to play how he can improve the squad.
A clear priority for incoming head coach Ruben Amorim has to focus on signing a left-sided player for his 3-4-3 formation. If he has done any studying on the United squad, he will know he cannot rely on Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, despite speculation they may be fit for his first game.
And he will likely be cursing United making a decision to sell Alvaro Fernandez, a player who is an ideal fit for a wing-back role, who was sold to Benfica for just £5 million.
The good news is Manchester United have a buy-back clause at £16 million, cheaper than the £42 million other clubs must pay Benfica for Fernandez.
Alvaro Fernandez scores for Benfica
Alvaro Fernandez is in excellent form for Benfica this season, and if Manchester United do buy him back, then the difference of £11 million sale to buy-back may be money well spent.
Fernandez has starred in the Champions League, notably a 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid, and also impressed domestically.
On November 2, Fernandez scored Benfica’s equalising goal in a 2-1 away victory over Farense.
The defender was outstanding, managing 114 touches in total, winning three tackles, and making 17 passes into the final third.
While there are other options United could consider, Fernandez, 21, has an edge due to the buy-back clause, and fresh hope after Erik ten Hag was sacked, a manager who did not take a fancy to him.
Ruben Amorim tipped for Fernandez
Portuguese outlet Mais Futebol covered Fernandez’s standout performance, and noted that Ruben Amorim will be watching.
Their report wrote: “Given his good performances, Amorim will certainly be keeping an eye on Carreras and a possible return to Old Trafford.
“As is his custom, the Spaniard once again had a great performance, culminating in a goal.”
Amorim has pledged not to sign any Sporting players in the January transfer window – but don’t expect him to apply the same self-restriction when it comes to Benfica players, if given a chance.
It may even do his old side Sporting a favour too, while solving an issue for United.
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