Manchester United is considering the potential sale of Hannibal Mejbri to Sevilla at the conclusion of his loan spell, but this may not signify the end of his tenure with the club due to the rumored inclusion of a buy-back clause.

Hannibal, set to turn 21 soon, recently sealed a loan move to Sevilla with an option for a permanent transfer in the upcoming summer. Reports have indicated a fee of €20m (£17m), which is not obligatory and depends on Sevilla’s decision based on the player’s performance in the following months.

Having arrived at United from Monaco in 2019, Hannibal has accumulated 10 appearances this season, the latest in the FA Cup third-round victory over Wigan Athletic. Despite injuries to key players like Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Christian Eriksen, he has struggled to secure a consistent spot in the starting lineup under United manager Erik ten Hag.

Even in the event of a complete sale, United is believed to have negotiated a buy-back clause, valued at €35m (£30m), providing the club with a means to influence Hannibal’s future. This clause ensures that United can potentially bring him back to Old Trafford while allowing Sevilla to gain a substantial 75% profit on their investment if activated.

Furthermore, United stands to benefit from a sell-on clause, earning a portion of any future transfer fee if Hannibal is sold to another club, with the specific percentage undisclosed.

Contrary to reports suggesting involvement by new investors INEOS in adjusting transfer terms, Manchester Evening News has dismissed such claims.

United initially secured the services of Hannibal at the age of 16 in a £9m deal with Monaco in 2019. Recognized for his natural talent, he quickly became involved in first-team training and made several senior appearances by the end of the 2021/22 season.

Having spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Championship side Birmingham City, featuring in 41 matches, Hannibal returned to United for the first half of the 2023/24 season, including scoring his inaugural goal – a long-distance consolation in a defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Sevilla, where ex-United winger Adnan Januzaj resides, is now Hannibal’s new destination, featuring experienced figures like Jesus Navas, Sergio Ramos, and Ivan Rakitic.