Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has hinted at the possibility of using a “buy-back clause” to re-sign one of the club’s former players, with a potential move being discussed for either the January transfer window or next summer.
This revelation comes as United faces challenges in their squad due to injuries and seeks to reinforce their options.
During the 2024 summer transfer window, Manchester United sold several players to generate funds for new signings. Among those who departed were Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Alvaro Carreras.
Carreras, a left-back who joined United in 2020 from Real Madrid’s youth system, moved to Benfica for around £5 million after failing to make a senior appearance for the club. Instead, the 21-year-old spent time on loan at Preston North End, Granada, and Benfica before his permanent move.
Since joining Benfica, Carreras has shown significant improvement and has been particularly impressive in the Champions League.
His standout performances, especially against Red Star Belgrade and Atletico Madrid, have caught the attention of top clubs, including Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.
However, with Manchester United struggling for options at left-back due to injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, the possibility of bringing Carreras back to Old Trafford has gained traction.
Although summer signing Noussair Mazraoui has stepped in admirably at left-back, his recurring fitness issues have left United short-handed.
This situation forced manager Erik ten Hag to make tactical adjustments, such as deploying Jonny Evans as a makeshift left-back in a recent match against Brentford. Carreras’ return would provide much-needed depth and quality in this position.
Ten Hag remains optimistic about United’s chances of re-signing Carreras, thanks to a £16 million buy-back clause in the player’s contract.
He highlighted how the club has strategically managed Carreras’ development, allowing him to gain valuable experience through loans and permanent moves. The manager praised the player’s progress, pointing to his consistent performances in La Liga and now at Benfica as evidence of his maturity and growth.
Ten Hag also emphasized that while Carreras has developed well, playing for Manchester United in the Premier League requires a unique level of experience and readiness.
As the club continues to evaluate its options, Carreras’ potential return to Old Trafford remains a strong possibility, with the buy-back clause giving United an advantage over rival clubs.
