Manchester United’s captain Bruno Fernandes could be at the center of one of the biggest transfer battles this summer. Reports from talkSPORT suggest that Fernandes is among 50 players being targeted by Saudi Pro League clubs, with Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr all reportedly interested.
Fernandes, 31, has been linked with leaving Old Trafford for some time. The Portuguese midfielder has a £57 million release clause, making him an attractive option for clubs outside Europe. This follows the announcement that Manchester United will let Casemiro leave at the end of his contract, freeing up funds and attention for possible new signings.
Last summer, Fernandes almost joined Al-Hilal. At the time, he decided against the move, saying the timing was not right. However, things may have changed after the departure of Ruben Amorim, the former Man United coach. With less than 18 months left on his current contract, the door could now be open for a summer move.
Bruno Fernandes spoke to Canal 11 about the possibility of leaving Manchester United. He revealed that the club was willing to let him go and that he could have earned much more money in Saudi Arabia. “From the club I felt it was, ‘If you go it’s not so bad for us’. It hurts me a bit. More than hurting me, it makes me sad,” Fernandes said.
Despite the chance to earn up to £700,000 per week and potentially win more trophies this season, Fernandes chose to stay for family reasons and out of love for Manchester United. He added, “I would have won many trophies this season, but I decided not to go, not only for family reasons but because I genuinely love the club.”
Fernandes also hinted that Manchester United may have wanted him to leave. “The club wanted me to leave. I told the directors that, I think they didn’t have the courage to make that decision because the manager wanted me,” he said.
Currently, Fernandes has stated he will not discuss his future until after the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. However, Saudi clubs remain interested, hoping to finalize a deal during the summer transfer window.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are preparing to meet with Fernandes before the tournament to discuss his future. The club reportedly wants him to stay, but Fernandes will have the final say on any decision. He has expressed a preference to remain in Europe, though the Middle Eastern clubs are hopeful they can persuade him.
The interest in Fernandes comes amid a broader wave of Saudi spending on world-class players. Mohamed Salah, Vinicius Jr, Robert Lewandowski, and Casemiro have all been linked with moves to the region. With Casemiro already confirmed to leave United, the chances of high-profile transfers to Saudi Arabia have increased.
This potential move could have a huge impact on Manchester United’s plans. Losing Fernandes would mean the club could earn around £100 million in transfer fees, but it would also leave a significant gap in their midfield. Fernandes has been central to the team’s strategy since joining the club and is considered one of their most important players.
Fans of Manchester United have had mixed reactions to the news. Some hope Fernandes stays, valuing his leadership and creative ability. Others believe it might be a good moment for the club to cash in and rebuild for the future.
The Saudi Pro League has become a major force in the football transfer market, offering astronomical wages to attract world-class talent. Fernandes’ situation shows how the league is now directly challenging top European clubs for star players.
If Fernandes decides to move, it would mark the end of an era at Old Trafford. He has consistently been one of United’s top performers and is a fan favorite for his commitment and skill on the pitch.
Despite his loyalty, Fernandes faces a critical decision this summer. The World Cup could be the last major tournament before he makes a move, and it may influence both his career trajectory and Manchester United’s strategy.
The financial benefits of moving to Saudi Arabia are obvious, but Fernandes seems motivated more by footballing reasons and family considerations. This makes the summer transfer window even more intriguing, as clubs and fans wait to see what will happen.
Saudi clubs are known for aggressive recruitment strategies, often paying massive wages and transfer fees to secure top talent. If Fernandes moves, it would underline the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League in global football.
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