Liverpool have registered their interest in Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez, according to reports in the Portuguese media.

Newspaper Jornal de Noticias claims that the Reds have “recently contacted” Fernandez’s club to enquire about the defender’s availability.

It is believed that the initial approach was knocked back by Benfica who were keen to keep Fernandez until the end of the season.

However, things could change this summer if Arne Slot’s side are serious about securing the 21-year-old’s services.

The Liverpool target is a former United player

The Spaniard was, until very recently, a member of Manchester United’s squad, having spent the best part of four years at Old Trafford, having joined them as a youth player from Real Madrid.

Fernandez went out on several loan spells, including to Benfica, prior to sealing his permanent exit back in July. The Red Devils are still said to have a buyback option on the player.

There is a release clause in Fernandez’s contract

Reports suggest that the fullback can be signed if a club matches his buyout fee, which is said to be worth around €50m (£42m).

It is unlikely that Liverpool would be willing to pay that much for Fernandez, considering Benfica only signed him for an initial €6m (£5m) from United at the start of the season.

The Merseysiders are, though, clearly keen on strengthening their options on the left-hand side of defence. Many believe that first-choice Andy Robertson is coming to the end of his time at the club, with the Scotland captain having experienced a major dip in form this campaign.

Fernandez is by no means the only player being considered. Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is also thought to be a target but the Hungarian is likely to cost more to sign.

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