Liverpool could activate €50 million release clause to sign ex-Manchester United defender: Reports

Liverpool have set their sights on former Manchester United left-back Alvaro Carreras, according to O Jogo. The Spaniard joined Benfica on a permanent deal this summer but could be back in England soon.

The 21-year-old arrived at Old Trafford from Real Madrid Academy in 2020 and was quite a rage with the Red Devils youth side. However, he failed to break into Manchester United's starting XI, spending most of his time at the club out on loan.

The defender spent the second-half of last season on loan at Benfica and the Portuguese side signed him permanently this summer for a mere €6m. Carreras has been very impressive this season, registering nine appearances across competitions, seven of which were starts. His efforts have reportedly already earned him admirers at Liverpool.

The Reds are looking for Andy Robertson's long-term replacement, with the player now on the wrong side of 30. The Scottish left-back has been integral to the Merseyside club's recent success and the club are now laying down succession plans. Carreras has been identified as the right candidate for the job.

Benfica are known to be traditionally shrewd negotiators and reportedly have included a €50m release clause in the player's contract. Liverpool are apparently willing to activate that option to take him to Anfield.

However, the Reds could face competition from Real Madrid and Barcelona for the player's signature. That could spell trouble for the Merseyside club, as Carreras could prefer to return to Spain.

Will Manchester United compete with Liverpool for Alvaro Carreras?

Alvaro Carreras was highly rated at Manchester United, so it was a bit of a surprise when the club allowed him to leave. That decision has come back to haunt the Red Devils, who have struggled to field a specialist left-back in their starting XI of late.

Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are yet to kick a ball this season although they are close to returning to full fitness. However, the duo's injury troubles in the last season and a half should be a cause of concern for the Premier League giants.

Letting Carreras go already looks like a poor decision and Manchester United could be tempted to bring him back in 2025. The youngster was named the 'Player of the Season' for the Red Devils' U23 team in 2022.

Liverpool's interest in the player could also force the club into action. Manchester United reportedly have a €20m buy-back clause for the Spaniard, which they could activate in 2025.