Ten Hag has secret clause that can sabotage Liverpool

Erik ten Hag may have left a lasting mark on Manchester United’s transfer dealings even after his recent departure.

The Dutchman, dismissed last month following United’s 2-1 loss to West Ham, reportedly revealed a little-known clause in Alvaro Fernandez’s contract that could spell trouble for Liverpool’s transfer aspirations.

The young Spanish talent, now impressing at Benfica after previous stints at Preston and Granada, has caught the eye of Liverpool’s scouts.

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However, Ten Hag previously orchestrated a strategic buy-back clause in Fernandez’s United contract, meaning the Red Devils can reclaim him for just €20 million—potentially derailing any Liverpool deal.

Ten Hag had explained his philosophy in 2023, emphasizing Fernandez’s development pathway:

“We loaned him to Preston, then to Granada, and now Benfica. It’s been a steady progression through stronger leagues and clubs.”

By arranging the buy-back clause, Ten Hag kept United’s options open to call back Fernandez, who, even during his loans, expressed his ambition to eventually cement a spot at Old Trafford.

Liverpool may need to think twice, as United’s contractual grip could see Fernandez back in red—just not the red Liverpool fans hoped for.