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Manchester United in Talks with Bruno Fernandes Over New Contract Amid Transfer Speculations

Manchester United are reportedly looking to engage in discussions with Bruno Fernandes regarding a new contract amidst ongoing transfer talks and speculation. The club respects Fernandes' decisions and will allow him to have the final say on his future, despite expressing a desire for him to stay. Learn more about the evolving situation and Fernandes' perspective on loyalty and club commitment.

Manchester United in Talks with Bruno Fernandes Over New Contract Amid Transfer Speculations

Manchester United reportedly want to open talks with Bruno Fernandes over a new contract, but will ultimately let the captain decide whether he stays or goes. Fernandes' current deal runs until 2027 and though the club have the option to extend it by a further 12 months, they would like to discuss fresh terms.According to ESPN, United want to sit down and hold talks with Fernandes over a new contract before he links up with the Portugal squad for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA. The club are hoping to convince the midfielder to stick around for at least one more season as they enter a new era following the sacking of head coach Ruben Amorim.The report adds that while United want Fernandes to stay, the club will let him be the master of his own destiny, letting him "decide his next step."Fernandes notably came close to leaving United last summer when he received a mega-money approach from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Though he decided to remain at Old Trafford, the 31-year-old admitted he was "hurt" by the club's willingness to let him go."The issue of loyalty isn't viewed the same way it used to be," he told Canal 11. "I could have left in the last transfer window, I would have earned much more money, I was going to leave a season ago - I won't say where - but I would have won many trophies that season. I decided to stay, also because of family reasons, but because I genuinely love the club."The conversation with the manager [Amorim] also made me stay. But, from the club's side, I felt a bit like, 'if you leave, it's not so bad for us'. It hurts me a bit. More than hurting, it makes me sad because I'm a player who has nothing to criticise. I'm always available, I always play, good or bad. I give my all. Then, you see things around you, players who don't value the club as much and don't defend the club as much… that makes you sad."The person who spoke to me was the president of Al-Hilal, who called me directly. Ruben Neves sent me a message saying he wanted to talk to me. They wanted me to play in the Club World Cup with Al-Hilal. It was already a love that came from the Jorge Jesus era, he had already called me in 2023."I can't complain, I'm very well paid, but obviously the difference is abysmal. That was never what guided me. If one day I have to play in Saudi Arabia, I'll play in Saudi Arabia. My lifestyle will change, my children's lives will be sunny, after six years in Manchester with cold and rain, I'll be playing in a growing league, with renowned players."I could have left like many people do and said: 'I want to leave, I don't want to train, I just want to leave for 20 or 30 million, so they pay me more on the other side'. But I never did that. I never felt in a position to do it, because I felt that the empathy and affection I had for the club were the same. But it gets to a point where, for them, money is more important than anything. The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head. I told the directors that, but I think they didn't have the courage to make that decision, because the manager wanted me. If I had said I wanted to leave, they would have let me go."ESPN add that United were taken back by Fernandes' comments and will look to avoid a repeat of this situation by touching base with the player and his representatives about his intentions. Though Fernandes has already confirmed he doesn't want to think about his club future until after the World Cup, United want to finalise their transfer plans earlier in the summer. They are seeking midfield reinforcements with Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton all on their shortlist.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingFernandes was one of the stars of the show last Saturday as United beat rivals Manchester City 2-0 at Old Trafford in Michael Carrick's first game in charge since returning to the club. The Red Devils face another Premier League title contender on Sunday when they travel to leaders Arsenal.

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Manchester United's Approach Towards Bruno Fernandes

Amidst transfer speculations and reports of interest from Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, Manchester United have expressed their intention to open contract talks with Bruno Fernandes. Although the club is keen on retaining the influential midfielder, they are willing to let Fernandes make the ultimate decision on his future. The desire for a new deal comes in the wake of a transitional period at the club following the departure of head coach Ruben Amorim.

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Fernandes' Loyalty and Relationship with Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes, despite admitting to feeling hurt by the club's openness to his potential departure, has shown dedication and loyalty to Manchester United. Reflecting on past opportunities to leave for financial gains and the contrasting values of loyalty in modern football, Fernandes reiterated his love for the club and his commitment to giving his all on the field. He shared insights into offers received and his decision-making process, emphasizing personal and family considerations alongside his genuine affection for the club.

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United's Response and Forward Planning

In response to Fernandes' candid remarks and the need to avoid future uncertainty, Manchester United reportedly plan to address the situation by engaging in discussions with the player and his representatives. While Fernandes has expressed a preference to focus on the upcoming World Cup before considering his club future, United are eager to clarify their transfer strategies and secure midfield reinforcements. The club is targeting potential additions like Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton to strengthen their squad for upcoming challenges.

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Focus on Performance and Unity

On the pitch, Bruno Fernandes continues to deliver standout performances for Manchester United, as seen in the recent victory over Manchester City under interim manager Michael Carrick. The team faces another tough test against league leaders Arsenal, highlighting the ongoing competitive nature of the Premier League. Amidst off-field discussions and uncertainties, the unity and determination displayed by Fernandes and his teammates remain crucial to the club's aspirations and success.

Published on Jan 21, 2026
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