Bruno Fernandes’ Manchester United future is still up in the air despite the midfielder’s fine recent form
Despite being one of Manchester United’s most influential and consistent performers in recent years, Bruno Fernandes’ long-term future at Old Trafford has rarely felt entirely secure.
The 31-year-old, in excellent form once again this season, has registered eight goals and 17 assists in all competitions so far. But despite his output and his strong bond with both the club and its supporters, speculation over a potential departure has persisted.
That sense of uncertainty was heightened during Ruben Amorim’s time at United when reports emerged that the club were open to a lucrative sale to Saudi Arabia, temporarily straining the relationship between player and club.
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However, with the Portugal international now back to his best and firmly in the conversation for PFA Player of the Year, the situation appears to have stabilised – at least for the time being.
Here, MEN examines the wider picture surrounding Fernandes, including the details of a mammoth contract proposal and a little-known release clause in his deal at Old Trafford.
£700k-a-week offer
Last year, it was reported that Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal were prepared to submit a £100m offer to sign Fernandes, alongside a staggering £700,000-per-week contract that would have placed him among the highest earners in world sport.
With the midfielder approaching the twilight of his career and United working to carefully balance their finances, the club were open to sanctioning a sale. However, the stance did not sit well with Fernandes, who was understood to be “hurt” that United were willing to cut ties with him.
Ultimately, the bid was never officially tabled, allowing United to keep their captain but simultaneously denying them what would have been a club-record sale.
Release clause
While Fernandes has made it clear that he wants to stay at United, the club are technically powerless to stop him from him leaving. That’s because of a new £56.68million release clause in his contract, one that can only be triggered by foreign clubs.
While that sum may deter some European teams from signing a player who turns 32 in September and has little resale value, it would not be a problem for the Saudis.
Al-Hilal were prepared to offer £100m because they were desperate to sign Fernandes ahead of last year’s Club World Cup, which began in June before the clause came into effect and there is expected to be renewed interest from the Middle East this summer.
Should Fernandes stay put, United are expected to open discussions over a new contract, with his current deal running out in 2027. They do, however, have the option to extend it by a further 12 months.
United want to keep Bruno
Despite previous links to a move away, the club’s stance has shifted firmly towards keeping Fernandes. While there is an ongoing push to reduce the wage bill – Fernandes is earning £300,000-a-week – United remain intent on retaining their captain’s influence on the pitch.
That position has reportedly been communicated directly to the player in an effort to ease any doubts over his future. He is also believed to be more settled since Michael Carrick took charge in January.
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