Manchester United are considering greenlighting an astonishing £87 million sale of club captain Bruno Fernandes, according to reports.
The 20-time English champions have enjoyed a rejuvenation of sorts since parting company with head coach Ruben Amorim last month. Under the temporary guidance of former midfielder Michael Carrick, United have won four and drawn one to move into the Premier League top four.
Unsurprisingly, Fernandes has been a key cog in the Red Devils’ attacking output. The Portuguese international has five assists and one goal in his last six outings, proving once again why he is so important to the team.
Fernandes Exit To Spearhead Another Rebuild?
The word ‘rebuild’ is one that has been overused at Old Trafford since the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Last summer saw the latest cash splurge, spending in excess of £200 million to bring in the likes of Bryan Mbuemo, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens.
Another big summer is expected, with the midfield positions the biggest priority. Casemiro is already a confirmed departee, but he could be joined by Fernandes.
The 31-year-old remained at the club last year following a reported £100 million bid from Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal. However, the player later revealed that he felt the club would have been willing to let him go, saying:
“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. I’m a player that no-one can criticise, I’m always available, I always give my best.
“I could have left in this transfer window, I would have earned much more money.
“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.”
Interest Starting To Mount
According to Caught Offside, Manchester United are considering allowing their talisman depart at the end of the campaign. European giants Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are said to be among the interested parties, whilst the links to Saudi Arabia refuse to dissipate.
Fernandes’ current deal expires in the summer of 2024 and it is claimed that the club are realistic regarding the player’s age and the fact this could be the last time they could receive a huge fee. As such, they have placed an £87 million price tag on his head. It is claimed a source said:
“A lot of people inside Manchester United will describe Bruno Fernandes as ‘indispensable’, and there’s an element of truth to that. However, they’re also realistic about his age, his high earnings, and the fact that his current contract expires in 2027.”
Such news is likely to divide United supporters. Although he remains extremely popular, there’s no doubt that such a huge sum could be reinvested straight back into the playing squad. Whether they can find someone who is as influential remains up for debate.
