Former Manchester United defender Alvaro Fernandez has suggested he is in no rush to leave Benfica amid speculation linking him with a return to Old Trafford.

After spending the second half of last season on loan at the Portuguese outfit, the left-back made the move permanent last summer, signing for a fee of €6million plus an additional €3m in add-ons.

The 21-year-old has been excellent so far this term, contributing three goals and four assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. His latest goal contribution saw him register an assist in Tuesday night's pulsating 5-4 Champions League defeat to Barcelona.

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As reported by the Manchester Evening News in October, United have until the 2026 summer transfer window to activate a buy-back option on the Spaniard. The 2026 deadline was not communicated when the sale was completed last summer.

United are in desperate need of fresh blood in the left wing-back department and an increasing number of arguments have been put forward to suggest Fernandez could be a realistic option amid the club's need for an attack-minded left-sided wing-back.

However, Fernandez, who is also being linked with Real Madrid, insisting he is enjoying life at Benfica, admitting he "owes them everything".

"In truth, we never know, but I have a long-term contract here at Benfica, I'm happy," said Fernandez, addressing his future. "They gave me the opportunity to grow and I owe them everything."

Fernandez left Old Trafford without having made a single first-team appearance for United. He spent time on loan at Preston North End and Granada prior to moving to Benfica.