Bruno Fernandes is set to stay at Manchester United, despite swirling speculation regarding a potential move to the Saudi Pro League. According to talkSPORT, Fernandes has already told team-mates and those close to his circle that he intends to remain in Manchester.
What happened?
Fernandes didn't hold any formal talks with the club over his future before the World Cup, but he remains a cornerstone of the project at United. The 31-year-old has one year left on his existing contract and a further one-year extension option held by the club.
The interest from the Middle East is far from a new development, as Saudi sides Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ittihad all made approaches last summer. Fernandes was tempted by a move to Al-Hilal in particular ahead of the 2025 Club World Cup.
Why it matters for Bruno Fernandes
Fernandes' future hasn't always been so certain, especially following a bombshell interview where he suggested the United hierarchy might have been open to selling him. However, the landscape at Carrington has shifted significantly since those comments.
Former manager Ruben Amorim is understood to have played a vital role in convincing Fernandes to stay, and current boss Michael Carrick is equally desperate for his captain to remain at the heart of the team. Fernandes has established himself as one of the most productive players in the club's modern history.
Past performances
Since joining from Sporting CP in January 2020, Fernandes has racked up 107 goals and 108 assists in 327 appearances. His impact has not waned with age; last season, he registered a Premier League high 21 assists, breaking the single-season record previously shared by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
Fernandes' elite form has carried onto the international stage during the current World Cup cycle. He registered his first goal contribution of the tournament when teeing up Cristiano Ronaldo's second goal in a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.
What comes next?
Al-Nassr and Saudi giants remain alert, with Al-Nassr still keen to reunite Fernandes with his international strike partner Cristiano Ronaldo. Further complicating the links is the fact that Portugal manager Roberto Martinez is reportedly in talks to take over the Riyadh-based side after the World Cup.
United officials are relaxed about the situation, even with a €65 million (£56m) release clause in his deal that is valid for non-English clubs. Fernandes' commitment to Manchester United is a significant boost to the club's chances of success in the upcoming season.
The midfielder's decision to stay will be welcomed by United fans, who have grown accustomed to his impressive performances on the pitch. With Fernandes at the heart of the team, United will be looking to challenge for major honors in the upcoming season.