Alvaro Fernandez to Manchester United: Real Madrid starlet becomes latest signing in youth transfer revolution

Fernandez, 17, will join United on a four-year deal
@alvarocarreras3/Instagram

Manchester United have stepped up their drive to land the best emerging talent across the continent by swooping for Real Madrid starlet Alvaro Fernandez.

The 17-year-old defender will join United’s academy in what is expected to be a four-year deal.

He becomes the latest teenaged prospect to be lured to the club this summer, following the signing of Sunderland striker Joe Hugill and the imminent arrival of Barcelona full back Marc Jurado.

United are increasingly looking to recruit the best up-and-coming players from around the globe. Successful moves for Real and Barca starlets are evidence of their ambition.

Fernandez models his game off Real legend Marcelo.

AFP via Getty Images

The Spanish giants describe him as “a quality defender and good at taking the ball from behind. He stands out technically and for his intelligence on the field. He is difficult to beat one on one.”

Fernandez confirmed his departure on Instagram, saying: “It was not an easy decision and I only have words of thanks, after having belonged to the White House these past three years. I have made the decision to leave this great club.”

United have hugely expanded their scouting operation in recent years as they become increasingly aware of the competition at the top end of the market.

While they remain in pursuit of marquee signings, they have also made the move to sweep up the brightest emerging players at youth level to avoid major fees in the future.

In Pictures | Manchester United's summer transfer targets

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They paid around £9million to sign Hannibal Mejbri from Monaco last year, as well as luring striker Dillon Hoogewerf from Ajax’s academy.

Hugill could cost around £300,000 after United beat a host of Premier League rivals to his signature.

They issued a statement of intent last year when sending out a call for experts in France and Spain to identify "world-class and emerging talent for the club, ensuring a talent pipeline and a world class first team squad."

Successful candidates had to demonstrate "a track record of identifying and scouting elite players."

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