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Over the last few years, a whole host of big name stars have swapped the top European teams and leagues for Saudi Arabia and the Saudi Pro League, with players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Fabinho, Neymar and Karim Benzema all now competing for Saudi teams.
Over the last few weeks, two United players in the form of Donny van de Beek and Casemiro have been linked with moves to the middle East. Reportedly Al-Ettifaq and Al-Ahli are both interested in signing van de Beek, with the later team also competing with Al-Nassr and Al-Qasidiya for Casemiro.
Now, it’s being reported that a top Saudi team is looking at signing Bruno Fernandes for an incredible amount.
Fernandes joined United in 2020 for €65 million from Portuguese side Sporting CP.
Having bounced around the Italian league between Udinese and Sampdoria through a loan spell followed by permanent move, Fernandes wracked up 119 appearances with a total of 15 goals and 14 assists across his four seasons in Serie A.
These performances were enough to secure a move back to his nations capitol, joining Sporting for €9.7 million where he secured interest from the Premier League after scoring 63 goals in 137 games, with a further 50 assists across all competitions, winning two consecutive Portuguese League Cups and the League title in 2019.
Since moving to Old Trafford, the United captain has been vital to the tea’s success, making 233 appearances, with 145 goal contributions across all competitions, netting 79 goals and setting up his teammates 66 times. With thee contributions, Fernandes has been a major factor to winning Erik ten Hag’s two trophies in two Seasons since being in charge.
With such a successful track record, it’s easy to see why Al-Nassr are looking at bringing the Portuguese star to play alongside his old club and country teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Despite two years of having Ronaldo in their ranks, with him even being awarded the Golden Boot this season scoring 35 goal, Al-Nassr are yet to lift a trophy since the Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Saudi Arabia.
Having come second in the Saudi Pro League two years running, it’s clear that Al-Nassr are aiming to do something this transfer window to get them over the line and lift a trophy.
CaughtOffside are reporting that sources close to the Saudi club’s plans have informed them of the Portuguese star being very firmly on their radar, with a bid of €150 million being prepared for the 29-year-old.
It’s unknown as of yet if Fernandes has any desire to leave United or Europe, however the contract which he could be offered may see him earn as much as €70 million to €80 million per year to try and persuade the midfielder.
It’s understood that at this time, United are not wanting to sell their star man, with him being so crucial to their plans. With this in mind, it would have to be a ridiculously high bid for United to consider parting ways with their captain.
