Manchester United are now set to allow left-back Alvaro Fernandez to leave the club on loan, and join Portuguese club Benfica. There were initial rumours that the player would be leaving the club permanently, but it has now been revealed it will be a loan deal.

Fernandez spent the first part of the season on loan in Spain with Granada, playing 13 games in La Liga for the Spanish side. United decided against keeping the player at the club for the campaign, despite having to sign Sergio Reguilon on a half-season loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

Benfica are heavily interested in the player, and talks are now ongoing to agree on a loan deal.

Benfica Close To Fernandez Deal:

According to Fabrizio Romano, the deal is now close to being done. The formula of the deal has changed from permanent to a loan deal, but with talks progressing rapidly between the two clubs the feeling is a deal is imminent.

Fernandez is highly regarded behind the scenes at the club, so news of a permanent transfer earlier today seemed extremely strange. Luke Shaw is the starting left-back at the club, but with his injury issues, you can never be sure how long of a fan he’ll get in the side.

It’s unknown just yet whether there is an obligation or option to buy within the deal for Benfica. The Portuguese club have already signed some top talents within this window and is hoping to make the United youngster another example of that.

Erik ten Hag’s side are set to be bolstered by the return of Tyrell Malacia in the next few weeks, which likely promoted United to keep Fernandez out on loan until the end of the season.

The Reds fans will be hoping to see the Spaniard back next season.

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