Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'relaxed about Bruno Fernandes future amid Saudi Arabia links'

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 06 February 2024

Man United 'relaxed about Fernandes future amid Saudi links'

Manchester United reportedly have few concerns that Bruno Fernandes could be tempted to make the switch to Saudi Arabia in the summer.

Manchester United are reportedly hopeful that Bruno Fernandes has no interest in a transfer to the Saudi Pro League.

Despite divided opinion over whether he should have the captain's armband, Fernandes remains United's key player in the final third.

A total of seven goals and seven assists have come from 31 appearances in all competitions this season, as well as the Portugal international continuing to create more opportunities than any other player in the Premier League.

Holding a contract until 2026, which is effectively 2027 due to the 12-month option that they possess, United do not necessarily have to have any concerns over a departure for their chief playmaker.

However, at a time when FFP has become a real issue for the Red Devils, it is unclear whether there is a certain fee that would prove too good to turn down.

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes celebrates scoring against Fulham on November 4, 2023 © Reuters

The lure of the Saudi Pro League remains an issue for many of European football's top clubs, particularly when finances are not at an ideal level behind the scenes at many teams.

Nevertheless, according to Football Insider, United are not worried about the prospect of Fernandes potentially becoming tempted to move to the Middle East.

Although there was little movement in the January transfer window, Saudi clubs are expected to go big once again in the summer as the league attempts to strengthen its appeal in general.

Al-Hilal are said to hold the biggest interest in Fernandes at a time when they already sit clear at the top of the league standings.

Al Hilal's Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates on December 15, 2023 © Reuters

Fernandes's Portuguese compatriot Ruben Neves is already at the club, while Cristiano Ronaldo is the standout name in the Saudi Pro League at Al-Nassr.

That said, the report suggests that United plan to hold what they hope will be positive discussions with the 29-year-old at the end of the campaign, despite the prospect of a substantial offer being made to the player.

United and Fernandes are currently attempting to deliver Champions League football for next season, as well as the FA Cup when they are already out of Europe in 2023-24.

Erik ten Hag's team are next in action when they make the trip to Aston Villa - a rival for at least a top-five place in the Premier League - on Sunday.