Sergio Reguilon's time at Man Utd is up already! Red Devils confirm they have triggered break-clause in Spanish defender's loan contract to send him back to Tottenham after Luke Shaw & Tyrell Malacia boost

The 27-year-old joined United on loan in September after several key players were sidelined due to injuries, including first-choice left-back Luke Shaw.The Athletic reported that the Red Devils decided that they won't need Reguilon's services for the remainder of the campaign, with Shaw now back to full fitness and Tyrell Malacia also nearing a return from injury.

United confirmed on Thursday that the Spaniard would be heading back to North London effective immediately, with Tottenham substantiating the same news in their own statement.

United wrote in an official statement: "Sergio Reguilon is returning to his parent club Tottenham Hotspur after Manchester United activated a break clause in the loan agreement. The Spanish left-back joined on a temporary basis last August and made a positive contribution during the first half of the season. Sergio fulfilled the role he was brought in for: to provide cover for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia while both were out with long-term injuries. While Luke has missed the past two games with a minor injury, the England international is expected back soon. Tyrell, meanwhile, is getting closer to a return from his knee injury. The versatile Diogo Dalot can also provide further cover at left-back. With fewer games in the second half of the season and injured players returning, there will be less opportunity for Sergio to play. It was decided it was in the best interests of all parties for Reguilon to return to Spurs. The 27-year-old defender leaves United with our appreciation for his contribution and best wishes for the future.

During his stint at United, Reguilon made 12 appearances across various competitions. However, with manager Erik ten Hag now close to having a full defensive arsenal available, and fewer upcoming games on the cards following the club's exits from the Champions League and Carabao Cup, the decision has been made to end Reguilon's loan.

United initially targeted Marc Cucurella, but turned to Reguilon after complications arose from the Chelsea man's appearance in the Carabao Cup against AFC Wimbledon before the summer window closed. That made Cucurella cup-tied in that competition, and Ten Hag gave the green light for the Reguilon move, but The Athletic stated that United had always intended to use the break clause in his loan deal.

Reguilon, having only featured for United this season, is eligible to play for another club during the transfer window under FIFA rules. Hence, if Ange Postecoglou does not see a role for the former Real Madrid star at Tottenham, the north London club could look for new suitors.

Both United and Tottenham will next be in action in the FA Cup, with the former set to lock horns with Wigan Athletic on January 8, three days after Spurs face Burnley.