“I owe everything to them”: 21-yo addresses transfer speculation, United could sign him for €18m

Former Manchester United left-back Alvaro Carreras has addressed transfer speculation linking him with a move away from Benfica.

United are in desperate need of a new left-sided wing-back amid Ruben Amorim’s struggles to effectively implement his 3-4-3 system that relies heavily on its wing-backs for width and creativity.

Luke Shaw has remained out of contention due to his persistent injury struggles. Meanwhile, Tyrell Malacia and Diogo Dalot have failed to impress Amorim.

Nearly a year ago, the Mancunians had the talented Carreras on their books but they allowed him to join Benfica on loan and handed the Portuguese side an option to sign him on a permanent basis.

Benfica exercised that option without much ado, and now the Spain U21 international is making headlines with his impressive performances in the Liga Portugal and the Champions League, leading to interest from the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

On Tuesday, he again found himself under the spotlight after delivering a promising display in his side’s 5-4 defeat at the hands of Barca.

Carreras emerged as a constant threat throughout the night and even registered an assist.

After the full-time whistle, he was asked about the possibility of a move on the back of the brilliant showing against the Spanish giants.

The 21-year-old told DAZN in Portugal (Sport Witness): “No. Actually, you never know, but I have a contract for many years here at Benfica, I’m happy. They gave me the opportunity to grow, and I owe everything to them.”

The left-back’s former club United are also believed to be in the mix.

While shining a light on the Premier League side’s pursuit of Patrick Dorgu, Fabrizio Romano wrote: “United also have more options in list including Alvaro Carreras with €18m buy back clause.”

For now, though, it seems United are focusing on signing the Leece full-back, having already reached a “basic agreement” with the player over a January move.