Manchester United have confirmed their first transfer deal of the summer as the expected overhaul under Sir Jim Ratcliffe begins just a day after the Red Devils’ win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
United beat City 2-1 at Wembley on Saturday and although Ratcliffe praised the work of the club’s staff, the club’s minority owner stopped short of mentioning manager Erik ten Hag by name and the Dutchman’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.
Following Ratcliffe’s reaction, Ten Hag was asked about his future after the match and said that if he was not wanted at Old Trafford, he would win trophies elsewhere.
Alvaro Fernandez in action for Manchester United against Athletic Club in pre-season in August 2023. (Image credit: Getty Images)
And just a day after United’s win at Wembley, the club have confirmed their first deal in what is likely to be a hectic summer at Old Trafford.
Manchester United announced that young defender Alvaro Fernandez has joined Benfica on a permanent deal after a spell on loan with the Lisbon outfit.
“Alvaro Fernandez has joined Portuguese giants Benfica on a permanent deal,” United said on their website. “The Eagles have exercised the option to purchase the player on a permanent basis after he spent the second half of the season on loan at Estadio da Luz.”
The Spanish left-back, who previously played on loan at Preston North End and Granada, has represented Spain at Under-21 level.
The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.
Fernandez, who never made an official first-team appearance for Manchester United, played 16 times or Benfica in the second half of the 2023/24 season as Benfica finished second in the Portuguese league.
More Manchester United stories
Roy Keane reignites feud with Sir Alex Ferguson
Manchester United to admit crucial decision was a mistake, as Erik ten Hag is left sweating over his future: report
‘As simple as that’ – Gareth Southgate explains Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson Euro 2024 snubs
Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
