Alvaro Fernandez has insisted that he is keen to return to Manchester United and fight for his place following the conclusion of his loan spell with Preston North End.
The 19-year-old full-back, who joined the Lilywhites on a season-long loan deal in the summer transfer window, is yet to play for United's senior side since signing from Real Madrid in 2020. However, his impressive showings in the Championship this term are likely to increase his chances of featuring for Erik ten Hag's team.
He made 23 appearances in Premier League 2 last season - registering three goals and four assists - and has been a regular in Preston's side so far this campaign. The Spaniard, who missed four matches with an ankle injury in August, has made 21 appearances in all competitions.
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Fernandez is under contract with United until June 2024, with the option of an additional year's extension. The full-back is keen to be part of Ten Hag's squad next term, while also targeting a place in Spain's U21 side.
"My goal is to return to Manchester United and earn a place in the first team," he told Relevo. "I speak enough with Darren Fletcher, who is involved in the dome of the first team".
Discussing a potential call-up to the Spain U21 squad, he added: "I was already with Santi Denia in the U-19. It is always nice to defend your country."
The young defender - who is currently living with an English family with his brother, Fran - also spoke 'dreaming big' in his career, but only while remaining focused and driven.
"We are few in the family, but we are united. They always kept me there on the leash. Dreaming big but with our feet on the ground. The other day I saw that phrase and I was cool," Fernandez said.
Fernandez started for Preston in their Championship clash against Stoke City on Monday afternoon.
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