LIVE Transfer Talk: Man United eye Fernández ahead of Liverpool, Madrid, Barça

The winter transfer window won’t reopen in Europe for a while yet, but there are plenty of moves in the works and gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals! (Man United eye Fernández ahead of Liverpool)

Liverpool are reportedly throwing their hats into the ring alongside giants Real Madrid and Barcelona in a quest to land Benfica’s promising left-back, Alvaro Fernandez. The 21-year-old, who Manchester United holds a buyback clause for, is becoming increasingly attractive to several top clubs after impressing in Portugal.

Fernandez left Old Trafford this past summer without making an appearance for the club during his four-year stint, which began when he joined from Real Madrid in 2020. The Red Devils recouped €6m (£5m) through his transfer to Benfica, where he has since made his mark as a regular starter, following a successful loan that saw him make strides in the latter half of last season.

This season, Fernandez has already made nine appearances across all competitions, showcasing his talent with one goal and an assist during the second half of the previous term. His impressive performances have surely caught the eye of scouts from both Barcelona and Real Madrid, although Manchester United have until 2026 to activate their buyback option for the talented Spain Under-21 international.

While Manchester United are experiencing turmoil at left-back, with veteran Jonny Evans potentially stepping in against Brentford this weekend, there are no immediate plans to bring Fernandez back to Old Trafford. Reports from AS suggest that Liverpool have shown a keen interest in the youngster and have been closely monitoring his development since he arrived in Portugal.

Prior to his move to Benfica, Fernandez had a successful loan spell at Preston North End, where he provided six assists in 42 appearances during the 2022-23 campaign. His previous experience in English football gives Liverpool confidence that he would transition smoothly into the Premier League, despite being contracted to Benfica for another five years.

Fernandez’s deal with the Eagles potentially includes a release clause alongside Manchester United’s buyback option, but the specifics of these contractual terms remain unclear.

Looking ahead, Liverpool are likely preparing for a future post-Andy Robertson, who has solidified his status as one of the best left-backs in European football since his transfer from Hull City seven years ago. Now in his thirties and out of contract in 2026, planning for life after Robertson is a necessity for the Merseyside club.

Kostas Tsimikas, who has been the backup option, is unlikely to inherit the first-choice left-back position when Robertson eventually departs. As such, Liverpool have reportedly been exploring alternatives, with Rennes’ Adrien Truffert emerging as a prime target. Additionally, after the Paris 2024 Olympics, contact has been made regarding the signing of Argentine prodigy Julio Soler from Lanus.

As the race intensifies, it remains to be seen whether Liverpool can secure the services of Fernandez against fierce competition. However, the Reds appear prepared to reinforce their left flank for the years to come.