Bruno Fernandes is seriously weighing up a blockbuster move to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Hilal pushing hard to tempt the Manchester United skipper away from Old Trafford.
Representatives of the 30-year-old midfielder have reportedly held advanced talks with Al-Hilal officials in recent days, as the Saudi Pro League giants prepare for a high-profile Club World Cup campaign this summer. The proposal on the table is said to be hugely lucrative—more than doubling Fernandes’ current wages—and would make him one of the highest-paid footballers in the world.
The uncertainty surrounding Fernandes’ future has been a hot topic during United’s current post-season tour of Asia. While the Portuguese star has remained professional and committed throughout, those close to the camp suggest he has offered no assurances over his long-term intentions, fuelling speculation that a move could materialise as early as next week.
Manchester United, for their part, are understood to be calm about the situation. Club insiders believe they are under no pressure to sell, with Fernandes still under contract until 2027—having only penned an extension last August—with the option of a further year.
That said, new head coach Rúben Amorim is aware that a mooted £80 million transfer fee could prove crucial in reshaping a side that finished well off the pace last season. Asked about Fernandes’ future during the club’s Asian tour, Amorim remained diplomatic.
“We’ve spoken about this many times,” he said. “You see his performances, his leadership, his passion. In the difficult moments, Bruno is the one who steps up. That’s what a captain should do.”
Al-Hilal have been actively pursuing a marquee signing to bolster their squad ahead of the Club World Cup, where they will face Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, and Pachuca in the group stage. Adding Fernandes to their ranks would represent a major coup as they seek to establish themselves on the global stage.
Despite a turbulent season at United, Fernandes emerged as the club’s top scorer with 19 goals in all competitions, and was once again named Player of the Year—matching the club record with his fourth award. Many pundits argue that, without his contributions, United could have found themselves embroiled in a relegation battle.
However, the midfielder hasn’t been without his critics. Former captain Roy Keane has repeatedly questioned Fernandes’ temperament and discipline, suggesting he embodies the lack of leadership that has plagued United in recent years.
Fernandes joined the Red Devils from Sporting CP in January 2020 for £47 million and has since made 290 appearances, scoring 98 goals and establishing himself as the heartbeat of the team. His departure would mark the end of an era—and possibly the beginning of another major rebuild at Old Trafford.
The next few days could prove decisive. For now, United fans are left to wonder whether their talismanic captain will stay to lead the next chapter, or if the lure of Saudi riches and a new challenge will prove too great to resist.
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