In the winter market, Manchester United cut short Álvaro Fernández Carreras’s temporary stay at Granada to send him on loan to Benfica in the same window.
The left-back initially had to settle for a limited role before starting to enjoy more minutes in recent weeks. He even scored in the Eagles’ 3-1 win over Farense at the weekend.
On Tuesday, the Manchester United owned player said he’s happy at Benfica.
O Jogo say the 21-year-old started impressing when he was given more time on the pitch. Benfica coach Roger Schmidt decides on his role in the team until the end of this season, but beyond that, it isn’t in his control.
Benfica have an option to make the Spaniard’s stay permanent and their idea has always been to activate it, given how cheap it is at just €6m. O Jogo state this has to be exercised before June 30th, but the player isn’t anxious about the deadline.
The Manchester United qualities are enough for him to continue with them next season, irrespective of whether or nor Schmidt will be in charge.
Benfica have a deal in place with Manchester United and all they have to do is activate the buying option before June 30th.
The report adds there are several other clubs showing interest in Carreras and hovering for a chance to strike. The Portugues club, after buying him from the Red Devils, could also decide to cash in from his sale.
What’s certain as of now is that his future will be away from Manchester United, and that the €6m is seen as a bargain almost regardless of what the player does.