£42m star now wants to join Real Madrid instead of United, Red Devils still have big advantage - report

Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez prefers a move to Real Madrid despite Manchester United having the option to re-sign him with a buy-back clause, according to Record (page 11).

The 21-year-old joined the Portuguese giants on an initial loan deal in January this year. Benfica turned his move into a permanent one by triggering a £5 million buy clause.

Fernandez was a key player for Benfica during the final weeks of last season and he has continued from where he left off, catching the eye with his defensive contributions.

Record recently revealed that United have the option to re-sign him for £16.7m and the club have the opportunity to activate the buy clause as early as January next year.

However, the same publication claim today that the Spaniard prefers to join Real Madrid. He was already in their academy between 2017 and 2020 before arriving at United.

Benfica also seem to prefer the same option as they could demand a package closer to his £42 buy-out clause, should Los Blancos make an approach for his signature.

Fernandez has lot to prove to secure move to bigger club

The youngster was in the United ranks for four years, but he did not make a competitive appearance.

United manager Erik ten Hag had the option to keep him amid injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia last winter, but he had no problem in sanctioning his departure.

This clearly suggests that the Dutchman has different plans in mind. Fernandez has impressed with his duel winning ability, tackling, recoveries and forward-minded passes.

However, he has been prone to losing possession on a staggering 17 occasions per outing. Clubs in the Premier League could fully capitalise on the evident weakness.

Hence, the United graduate has to improve in that aspect during his first full season at Benfica.

Madrid are the player’s preference, but the European champions will most certainly invest in a big name such as Alphonso Davies whose Bayern contract expires next summer.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

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