Fabrizio Romano confirms United have completed stunning U-turn regarding La Liga loanee

Man United might not sell Alvaro Fernandez just yet, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Manchester United severed ties with a number of academy graduates during the previous summer transfer window because the team found it more difficult to let go of first-team players.

The decision to break off relations with academy players has not gone down well with supporters, as players like Zidane Iqbal, Matej Kovar, and Anthony Elanga, to mention a few, have since impressed for their new clubs.

It’s unclear if John Murtough or manager Erik ten Hag is to blame, but it appears that trend is probably going to continue in January as well.

Young Alvaro Fernandez, who is currently on loan at La Liga team Granada, is expected to return to Old Trafford after his temporary contract expires, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

🚨🔴🦅 Benfica are closing in on deal to sign 2003 born fullback Álvaro Fernández!

Personal terms 100% agreed now, the contract is ready.

Agreement being finalised with Man United on permanent transfer, as per Record.

Details being discussed and then… here we go. pic.twitter.com/hv3xXz7FpT

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2024

Alvaro’s prospects

According to a number of reports, Benfica, who are keen to sign the Spanish player, will probably make the full-back’s permanent exit in the next few hours once he returns.

Benfica believes that the Spanish U21 international has the potential to develop into one of their star players in the near future. The Portuguese powerhouses are renowned for nurturing young players and then selling them for a high price.

The Italian, however, has changed the course of the transfer, suggesting that it may only be a loan exit rather than the anticipated sale.

🔴 Conversations between Benfica and Man United on final details for Álvaro Fernández deal still ongoing.

❗️ It could be different formula and no longer permanent transfer.

Talks taking place today, it remains close to being done — more to follow. https://t.co/KTP1aW5Wej

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 12, 2024

“Discussions concerning Álvaro Fernández’s contract final details are still going on between Benfica and Man United.”

“It might not be a permanent transfer and use a different formula. Discussions ongoing, close to completion — more to come,” Romano posted on X (previously Twitter).

This could mean that the young defender is only going to be out on loan at first, and it will be interesting to see if any future negotiations include a permanent option.

United ought to maintain Alvaro
Ten Hag is insistent on more readymade options rather than trusting an academy graduate, so Fernandez’s chances of breaking through seem slim given that United already has Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Diogo Dalot, who has ably filled that role this season.

With Shaw and Malacia suffering long-term injuries at the beginning of the season, the 20-year-old had the opportunity to remain in Manchester; however, the former Ajax coach opted to bring in Sergio Reguilon on loan while the Spaniard left to join Granada.

He is still regarded highly and has had two great loan stints, one at Preston North End last season and the other in La Liga.

United has always been recognized for its youth-first philosophy, and that attribute should not be lost. As such, the club should refrain from selling its academy players for a low price.