Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has suggested the possibility of activating a “buy-back clause” to re-sign a former player, potentially as early as the January transfer window or next summer. This move is being considered as the club looks to address squad depth issues caused by injuries.
During the 2024 summer transfer window, United sold several players, including Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Alvaro Carreras, to fund new signings. Carreras, a left-back signed from Real Madrid’s youth system in 2020, departed for Benfica in a £5 million deal after failing to make a senior appearance for the club. Before his permanent transfer, the 21-year-old gained experience on loan at Preston North End, Granada, and Benfica.
Since joining Benfica, Carreras has showcased remarkable development, particularly in the Champions League, where his standout performances against Red Star Belgrade and Atletico Madrid have attracted interest from top clubs like Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.
With United facing a left-back crisis due to injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the option of bringing Carreras back to Old Trafford has become more appealing.
Although summer signing Noussair Mazraoui has performed well in the role, his recurring fitness concerns have left United short-staffed.
This situation has forced Ten Hag to make unconventional adjustments, such as deploying Jonny Evans as a temporary left-back in a recent match against Brentford.
Carreras’ return could provide much-needed depth and quality in the left-back position. United’s buy-back clause, set at £16 million, gives the club an edge over potential competitors.
Ten Hag praised the club’s strategic handling of Carreras’ development, allowing him to gain valuable experience through loans and a permanent move.
The manager highlighted the player’s progress in La Liga and at Benfica as proof of his growth and maturity but stressed that playing in the Premier League demands a distinct level of readiness.
As United continues to assess its options, Carreras’ potential return remains a strong possibility. The buy-back clause positions the club favorably to secure his services ahead of interested rivals.
