Man United left-back Alvaro Fernandez has joined Championship side Preston North End on loan until the end of the season.
The 19-year-old has impressed at age group level in Old Trafford, winning United’s Under-23 Player of the Year award last season.
The Spanish youth international is renowned for his pace and creativity on the left side, and is seen as a top prospect by his parent club.
Fernandez was expected to potentially challenge for a place in the first team under Erik ten Hag this season. The Athletic report, however, that the signing of Tyrell Malacia changed United’s plans. Furthermore, the 19-year-old then stayed at home during the club’s pre-season tour of Australia and Thailand to finalise a loan move.
Following interest from Bundesliga clubs, Fernandez and United have settled on Ryan Lowe’s Preston North End as his next club.
He becomes the second player to join PNE’s loan ranks for this season. The Championship side loaned in forward Troy Parrott from Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.
Fernandez is set to feature at left wing-back for North End, with manager Lowe preferring a three-at-the-back system at Deepdale.
Alvaro Fernandez first words after loan signing
Speaking to PNE’s official website after completing his loan move, Alvaro Fernandez said: “I’m very happy, and I want to start with this club as soon as possible. I wanted to go on loan and start to play at a high level.
“I’ve spoken to the manager about the football, it’s so good. I like his plans for the season, so I want to start.”
Manager Ryan Lowe added: “He’s a fantastic asset to us. He’s going to be a fantastic football player for Manchester United. But we need Alvaro to help us in our Championship campaign for us to help him to hopefully one day make his Premier League debut for Manchester United.”
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