Manchester United end Alvaro Fernandez's loan ahead of Benfica move

Manchester United have recalled Alvaro Fernandez from his loan with Granada ahead of the youngster's move to Benfica.

Fernandez, 20, joined Granada on a season-long loan in the summer transfer window, but he's made just five league starts and the break clause in his contract has been activated.

The defender has been recalled and he's set to join Portuguese club Benfica on loan for the remainder of the campaign with a view to a permanent move. The Manchester Evening News understands there is set to be an option to buy included in the deal, meaning Benfica could sign Fernandez permanently.

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Fernandez should finalise his move to Benfica this week and United sources have indicated they will communicate his next step in due course.

The left-back joined United in September 2020 from Real Madrid after failing to agree a contract extension at the Bernabeu. Fernandez made progress in the academy and won the Denzil Haroun Reserve-Team Player of the Year award in 2022.

Fernandez spent last season on loan with Preston North End in the Championship and that spell was considered a success, with the youngster making 42 appearances.

There was Premier League interest in Fernandez following his loan with Preston, but he was sent on loan to Granada to continue his development.

“What message did United give me? That I should go out on loan, that Ten Hag didn’t count on me, that I should continue to gain experience, rhythm, and we’ll see what happens in the future," Fernandez told The Athletic in December.

"But it’s clear that football doesn’t end at any club and that you have to keep working. My main objective is to return to United and make a place for myself there.”