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Bruno Fernandes, the star midfielder of Manchester United, has reportedly caught the eye of Saudi Arabian clubs, with a hefty €100m (£87.3m) bid being prepared for his acquisition, as per a report.
Having joined Manchester United in January 2020, Fernandes quickly became a pivotal figure at Old Trafford, earning the club captaincy and establishing himself as one of their key players.
The Portuguese international boasts an impressive record at United, with 68 goals and 57 assists in 201 matches across all competitions. His tenure at the club has seen him lift an EFL Cup.
Fernandes is securely tied to United, with his contract set to run until 2026, and an option for the club to extend for an additional year.
Despite United’s fluctuating performances under Erik ten Hag, there’s been no indication that Fernandes, 29, is looking for an exit.
Yet, a report from Fichajes claims that Saudi Pro League teams, likely backed by the Public Investment Fund, are ready to make a substantial £87.3m offer for Fernandes, potentially in January or the following summer.
Should such a bid materialize, teams like Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli would likely be in the running to sign Fernandes.
The Saudi Pro League has seen a drop in average attendances compared to the 2022-23 season, despite attracting several high-profile players recently.
The league is, however, anticipated to witness another influx of star signings in 2024, with Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah being linked to moves to the Middle East.
For Manchester United, the prospect of parting with a crucial team member seems unlikely, especially given their current struggles. However, the financial boost from such a sale could be significant for the club, aiding in addressing various squad needs.
United’s financial constraints, particularly with FFP regulations, have been a topic of discussion, with recent reports suggesting they might have to focus on more economical deals in the January transfer window.
