Premier League giants Manchester United are eyeing a potential move to bring back former academy player Álvaro Fernández from Benfica if their pursuit of top left-back target Patrick Dorgu from Lecce doesn’t materialize, according to ESPN sources.
United Prioritizing Left-Back Reinforcements
The Red Devils have made signing a new left-back one of their key priorities in the January transfer window as they look to boost their squad depth and provide competition for incumbent Luke Shaw. Discussions are underway with Serie A side Lecce over a deal for their highly-rated 20-year-old Danish international Patrick Dorgu.
United have reportedly seen an initial bid of €25 million plus €5 million in add-ons rejected by the Italian club. While there is a willingness to increase their offer to around €30 million, an agreement has yet to be reached. Negotiations are set to continue in the coming days ahead of the transfer deadline on February 3rd.
Álvaro Fernández Emerges as Fallback Option
If United are unable to find a breakthrough in their talks with Lecce over Dorgu, they are prepared to turn their attentions back to a familiar face in Álvaro Fernández. The 21-year-old Spaniard came through the youth ranks at Old Trafford before heading to Benfica, initially on loan in 2023 before making the move permanent a year later.
Fernández has caught the eye with his performances for the Portuguese giants this season, featuring 30 times across all competitions. He particularly impressed in their Champions League round of 16 first leg tie against Barcelona last week, a match attended by United scouts.
Manchester United are interested in re-signing Álvaro Fernández as an alternative to Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu.
ESPN source
Pre-Agreed €18m Buyback Clause
Crucially, United shrewdly negotiated a buyback option valid until January 2026 when selling Fernández to Benfica. The Premier League side can re-sign the talented left-back for a fixed fee of €18 million, well below his current market value and the €50 million release clause in his contract.
While substantially higher than the €6 million Benfica paid for Fernández, it provides United a straightforward and cost-effective alternative to Dorgu that can be quickly activated if required. Club officials are set for further discussions following Benfica’s league match against Casa Pia on Saturday.
Antony Loan Boosts January Budget
United’s winter transfer kitty has been boosted by the loan departure of Brazilian winger Antony to Real Betis until the end of the season. Getting his sizable wages off the books, with Betis covering the majority of his salary, has given the Red Devils more financial flexibility as they enter the final week of the January window.
Manager Erik ten Hag is keen to add a top-class left-back to provide an upgrade on Luke Shaw and additional squad depth as they continue to battle on four fronts. Fernández is seen as a strong option if a deal for Dorgu proves unattainable.
- Man United in talks with Lecce over left-back Patrick Dorgu
- Álvaro Fernández identified as €18m buyback alternative
- Antony loan to Real Betis boosts January transfer budget
The final week of the transfer window looks set to be a busy one at Old Trafford as United aim to equip Ten Hag with the reinforcements required to sustain their push for silverware this season. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Dorgu or the familiar face of Fernández will be providing competition at left-back.
