Another first-team star has now exited Manchester United.
After the Red Devils announced the departure of centre-back Raphael Varane a week and a half ago, fellow defender Alvaro Fernandez is set to join the Frenchman through the club's exit door.
Read: Al Ahly 'impose penalty' on Tau
The 21-year-old has joined Portuguese side SL Benfica. After a loan spell that began in January, the Eagles have exercised their option to purchase the player on a permanent basis.
"Everyone at United would like to wish Alvaro all the best of luck in the future and will be keeping an eye on his progress," the Premier League club said in a statement.
During his loan stint in Portugal, the left-back made 16 appearances, contributing to one goal in the process, and helped the side finish second on the Primeira Liga table.
Get the latest soccer news and be ahead of the game. Follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link!
Prior to joining the Portuguese side, Fernandez spent the first half of the 2023/24 campaign at Spanish side Granada, representing the LALIGA outfit on 14 occasions.
The defender, who has signed a deal that will keep him at Benfica until 2029, expressed joy at the opportunity to stay at the club.
"I'm very happy for the trust they've placed in me. I've wanted to keep wearing this jersey ever since I arrived, and I want to say thank you next year by fighting for every possible title with the support of the fans. Come on, Benfica," he said, per the Eagles' official website.
United, who struggled with injuries to key defensive players this past season, could lose another defender in Jonny Evans, whose contract is due to expire next month.
Read: New Man Utd co-owner furious after 'hijacked' transfer
The 2024 FA Cup winners are, though, understood to be in the market to strengthen their backline in the upcoming transfer window.
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.