Manchester United are grappling with a significant transfer dilemma as Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal have reportedly tabled a substantial offer for their talismanic captain, Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of United’s squad since his £47.5 million move from Sporting CP in January 2020, is said to be the subject of intense interest from the Middle Eastern club, which is keen to make a marquee signing ahead of the Club World Cup.
According to reports emerging from Saudi Arabia, Al-Hilal’s executives met with Fernandes’ representatives on Monday to discuss a potential summer move. The offer, described as “astronomical” by some sources, is believed to be a big-money bid aimed at luring the 30-year-old away from Old Trafford. Fernandes, who signed a contract extension with United last summer that runs until 2027, has been in scintillating form this season, contributing 19 goals and 18 assists across all competitions. His performances have been a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging campaign for United, who sit 14th in the Premier League but have reached the Europa League semi-finals, largely thanks to Fernandes’ 11 goal involvements in the competition.
Despite the reported talks, Manchester United have been quick to dismiss the possibility of letting their captain go. Sources close to the club insist that no formal offer has been received from Al-Hilal, and even if one were to materialize, United have no intention of selling. Manager Ruben Amorim, who has repeatedly emphasized Fernandes’ importance to his squad, was unequivocal in his stance earlier this season when addressing speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid. “No, it’s not going to happen. He’s not going anywhere because I’ve already told him,” Amorim said in March. The former Sporting CP coach reiterated his desire to keep United’s best players, stating, “We want to win the Premier League again, so we want the best players to continue with us.”
The interest from Al-Hilal is not entirely new. Reports suggest there was initial contact between the Saudi club and Fernandes’ camp last year before he penned his latest contract extension. Al-Hilal, who previously missed out on signing Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, are now intensifying their efforts to secure a high-profile star to bolster their squad. Fernandes, with his proven track record and leadership qualities, fits the bill as a player who could elevate their ambitions on both domestic and international stages.
Fernandes himself has remained focused on his commitments at United, particularly with a crucial Europa League semi-final second leg against Athletic Club looming. His professionalism and dedication have been lauded, with some questioning whether he would entertain transfer talks at such a pivotal moment in the season. The midfielder has previously acknowledged receiving offers to leave United but has expressed a desire to continue achieving in European football, notably rejecting a lucrative proposal from Al-Hilal in January 2024.
The timing of the reported offer adds complexity to United’s situation. With the club struggling domestically and facing financial constraints, a significant bid could tempt the board to consider cashing in, though such a move would likely provoke a backlash from fans who see Fernandes as indispensable. His 177 goal involvements in 278 appearances for United underscore his value, and his departure would leave a gaping hole in Amorim’s midfield, especially with the team already lacking consistent goal-scoring from their forwards.