Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Ruben Amorim, Manchester United, Alvaro Fernandez
Ryan Smart
Portuguese media have made their feelings clear on Alvaro Fernandez after he left Manchester United to join Benfica in May.
The Spanish left-back, 21, spent the second half of last season on loan at the Portuguese giants, with an option-to-buy clause worth €6 million inserted as part of the deal.
Benfica activated the clause and Fernandez signed a five-year contract until 2029.
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The transfer disappointed United fans, particularly given the fitness issues surrounding Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia at the beginning of the season, and the fact that Fernandez had already had experience of English football at Championship level with Preston North End.
It was at Deepdale in which his attacking qualities shone, with his left wing-back role meaning there was less focus on his defensive work.
But now, Portuguese outlet A Bola (via Sport Witness) claim Fernandez - who goes by his second surname Carreras in Portugal - has significantly improved in both areas during his time at Benfica, and state that he is 'the boy who never stops growing'.
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They write: "The new Carreras, the boy who never stops growing.
"The Spanish left-back has become fundamental in both attacking and defending and is the greatest work of individual transformation by Benfica's manager [former Wolves boss Bruno Lage]."
United do have a buy-back clause for Fernandez worth €20 million, but there is no indication that they plan to activate it any time soon.
New manager Ruben Amorim, though, would have witnessed the Spaniard's talents first-hand while manager of Sporting Lisbon, while Fernandez's ability to play at wing-back could also see him suit Amorim's system.
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Fabrizio Romano claims that the Portuguese boss has requested a new left-back at Old Trafford, with Diogo Dalot having been first-choice there in Shaw's absence over the past 12 months.
Whether he chooses to bring back Fernandez instead of splashing out on a marquee signing such as Alphonso Davies - particularly with January funds seemingly set to be tight - remains to be seen.