Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has hinted at the possibility of triggering a buy-back clause to re-sign one of the club’s former players, potentially as early as January or during the summer transfer window.
This follows a summer of significant player sales for United, as the club aimed to raise funds for new acquisitions.
Among the departures were Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Additionally, Alvaro Carreras, a left-back who joined United in 2020 after being part of Real Madrid’s youth system, was sold for approximately £5 million.
Despite spending four years with the club, Carreras never made a senior appearance, instead gaining experience on loan at Preston North End, Granada, and Benfica.
Since making a permanent move to Benfica, the 21-year-old has emerged as a standout performer, particularly in high-profile games such as the Champions League matches against Red Star Belgrade and Atletico Madrid.
His performances have reportedly caught the attention of top clubs, including Liverpool, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.
United’s current struggles at left-back due to injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have further fueled speculation about Carreras’ return.
While summer signing Noussair Mazraoui has adapted well, he has been managing fitness issues after undergoing a heart procedure.
This led to veteran defender Jonny Evans being deployed as a makeshift left-back against Brentford.
Ten Hag addressed the situation during a recent interview, acknowledging the club’s advantageous position thanks to the £16 million buy-back clause included in Carreras’ sale to Benfica.
He expressed satisfaction with the development path Carreras has taken and hinted that a decision on his return could be made soon.
“The process has been perfect,” Ten Hag remarked.
“We loaned him to Preston, then Granada, where he didn’t get much playing time, but we kept monitoring him closely.
Eventually, we sold him, but with a buy-back clause, so we remain in control of the situation.”
Ten Hag highlighted Carreras’ progression, noting how his stints in England, Spain, and now Portugal have prepared him for more competitive environments.
“Each move has been a step up for him—starting at Preston, moving to La Liga, and now playing for Benfica.
He has gained valuable experience at higher levels, and that’s exactly what he need
However, the manager tempered expectations, emphasizing that succeeding at Manchester United is no easy task.
“The Premier League demands a lot in terms of experience and development.
Playing for United requires a certain level of maturity, and that comes from competing at top clubs and in stronger leagues,”he concluded.
