The left back is making a name for himself in Portugal after quitting the Red Devils in search of first team football
El Classico rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona both have both expressed an interest in signing Benfica's Alvaro Fernandez who Manchester United sold for just £5million in the summer.
The 21-year-old who arrived at Old Trafford in 2020 from Real Madrid, was let go without making a senior appearance but has been a revelation for his new side so far in his budding career in Portugal.
O Jogo reports that the Spanish giant duo will go head-to-head for the Spain Under-21 left back who is touted as the next big thing in football after the emergence of Barca sensation Lamine Yamal and the Blues' record-breaking Cole Palmer.
It is also rumoured that Atletico Madrid and Juventus are keeping tabs on the all-action defender with the view of upgrading their current options, in what could be a regrettable decision by United to sell the player without giving him a chance to prove himself should Fernandez realise his dream of playing for either of the Spanish giants.
The link with Fernandez comes as a surprise as both Real and Barca are known for signing galacticos. The player has gained valuable experience in the Champions League this season. He has made seven league appearances for Benfica as well as featuring twice in the Champions League.
Fernandez was named on the bench for United in the Premier League but didn't feature competitively for the senior side despite being heavily involved at youth level.
During his time at United Fernandez had loan spells at Preston, Granada and Benfica before signing for the latter club permanently. United have endured problems at left-back this season with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both out. Portuguese full back Diogo Dalot has deputised in their absence.
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