New transfer market option “being analysed” is bad news for Man United loanee

One Manchester United loanee could be impacted by the latest transfer strategy from his current club ahead of the summer transfer window.

United have had little success in their loan moves this season. Charlie McNeill was recalled mid-season after minimal game time at Stevenage.

Other cases include Maxi Oyedele at Forest Green Rovers, Hannibal Mejbri at Sevilla, and Dan Gore at Port Vale for various different reasons.

However, the most surprising loan that has failed to reach expectations has been Alvaro Fernandez’s move to Benfica. Many supporters suggested that the left-back could have been used at Old Trafford due to the injury problems in the position.

He was instead sent on loan to Benfica, with the Portuguese club also having an option to buy the player, as well as an obligation if he reached a certain number of minutes for the side.

Yet, Fernandez has had an equally disappointing time under Rodger Schmidt, with just two starts and a handful of appearances from the bench. He has been an unused substitute in their last two fixtures.

A new report from Jornal do Noticias now states that Benfica have made a new left-back their priority despite having the clauses to secure the Manchester United youngster on a permanent deal.

According to the information, the possibility of going into the market for a new one is being analysed at Benfica after Fernandez ‘still hasn’t convinced Schmidt’ despite being at the club since January.

And so, the idea of signing the Spaniard permanently is in doubt, despite reports earlier this year suggesting that Benfica were keen to do so.

This suggests that Fernandez will return to United at the end of the season. INEOS will then make the decision whether to keep, loan or sell the defender.