Liverpool want to sign £42m Spanish star, but United have huge advantage for one reason - view

Manchester United could act as a huge stumbling block towards Liverpool’s prospects of signing Benfica defender Alvaro Fernandez in future.

The Spaniard joined Benfica on loan from the Red Devils in January. The Primeira Liga giants triggered the option to buy him for £5 million during the summer.

Fernandez had a slow start to his career in Lisbon, but his form has been pretty good this campaign where he has started in five of Benfica’s seven league games.

The 21-year-old has caught the eye with his tackling, duel winning ability and recoveries. He has also impressed with an average of 25 passes in the opposition half.

A recent report from AS claimed that Liverpool have the ‘greatest interest’ in signing Fernandez and they have taken a step forward ahead of Real Madrid and Barcelona in the race.

However, the publication forgot to highlight that United still have a huge advantage in deciding the player’s future, having agreed a buy-back clause and matching rights for him.

The club also have a sell-on clause for the young talent, but we simply don’t see the Red Devils giving up on their former graduate, particularly if Liverpool were to make an approach.

Hence, United have the upper hand over Fernandez’s next move. With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia being injury prone, the club may need to pursue a new left-back next summer.

Shaw and Malacia are close to returning from respective injuries, but any more setbacks could seriously encourage the club to invest a reasonable figure on another signing next year.

Alvarez reportedly has a £42 million release clause in his contract. United could have the opportunity to sign him for much less with a buy-back clause – the figure remains undisclosed.

Stats from Sofascore.com

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