Ever-reliable transfer guru Fabrizio Romano suggests that Real Madrid are mightily close to a transfer that will surely upset Manchester United’s fanbase.
The Red Devils are currently facing serious financial problems, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe publicly acknowledging the issues, stating that the club “would have run out of cash by the end of 2025.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe: "Manchester United would have run OUT OF CASH by the end of this year…
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 10, 2025
…by the end of 2025 – after having me put $300m in and if we buy no new players in the summer", told BBC. pic.twitter.com/NRswdtmLIr
With every player at Manchester United potentially up for sale, fresh talent needs to be brought in to rebuild a strong squad capable of European qualification.
But could they have held on to a talent that now looks destined for greatness?
Álvaro Fernández has made 42 appearances for Benfica across all competitions this season, and if a transfer is not agreed, he will likely play in this summer’s Club World Cup.
Real Madrid, according to Fabrizio Romano, have reportedly begun talks with Benfica and have agreed a wage with Álvaro Fernández.
⚪️ EXCL: Real Madrid have now made official club to club contact with Benfica for Álvaro Carreras, deal could be done soon!
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 28, 2025
Talks are now underway. Agreement already done with the player on personal terms.
Excellent relationship between Benfica and Real. pic.twitter.com/lH3mtdUPhy
The Spanish side are in need of a full-back due to injuries and potential departures from the club. Dani Carvajal, while still a strong player, is 33, and injuries with longer recovery times are slowing the Spanish international down.
Having agreed terms with Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer, Real Madrid are strengthening their defensive back line, with the Liverpool talent set to play at right-back.
Fernández would fit into the chemistry of the team as a left-back alongside Trent in a younger and more dynamic back line.
Manchester United could still benefit from Benfica’s sale, as there was a sell-on clause included when making Carreras’ Benfica move permanent. The Spanish defender has a £42m release clause at the club.
If that figure is met, then Manchester United will likely receive around 10% of the release clause, potentially walking away with £4.2m.
Supporters will certainly feel hard done by, knowing another great player was let go.
This windfall is a bonus at a time when the club is under increasing financial pressure, especially after missing out on European qualification. But fans will be frustrated with yet another young and talented player slipping through the cracks, now linked with European giants Real Madrid.
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