Man United Prepared to Agree Deal with £70m–£80m OT Star – Report
Manchester United are reportedly ready to open talks over a new deal for one of their most valuable players, whose market valuation is currently between £70 million and £80 million. The Old Trafford hierarchy, now led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS sporting division, is determined to secure the long-term future of key assets—and this latest development highlights their intent to build stability around a core group of elite performers.
According to multiple sources, the club is preparing to offer a fresh and improved contract to Bruno Fernandes, their current captain and creative linchpin, amid rising interest from top European and Saudi Arabian clubs. Fernandes, who joined the Red Devils in January 2020, has been one of the most influential figures at United in recent seasons, and keeping him at Old Trafford is viewed as a top priority by both Erik ten Hag and the new leadership.
Rising Speculation About Fernandes’ Future
Over the past few months, there has been growing speculation regarding Fernandes’ future. The Portuguese international has hinted in interviews that he wants to win major trophies and compete at the highest level, casting some doubt over his long-term commitment to United—especially if the club fails to secure Champions League football for next season.
Reports from Spain and Saudi Arabia claim that clubs have begun quietly exploring Fernandes’ situation, gauging whether United would be willing to part with their prized asset. Saudi Pro League sides, in particular, are said to be readying mammoth financial packages to lure the midfielder. However, Manchester United are making it clear: they have no intention of selling—and instead are prepared to tie him down for the long term.
Current Contract Situation
Fernandes signed a contract extension in April 2022, which runs until June 2026 with an option for an additional year. However, in the evolving transfer landscape, United believe a renewed and improved deal is necessary to reflect his importance and fend off potential suitors.
The proposed new contract is expected to include:
Improved wages, increasing his current salary from approximately £240,000 per week to closer to £300,000 per week
Performance bonuses linked to appearances, goals, assists, and team achievements (such as Champions League qualification)
Enhanced image rights agreements and loyalty bonuses
Potential release clause discussions, which could align with his market value between £70m–£80m
These proposed terms would place Fernandes among the club’s highest earners—an acknowledgement of his status as the team’s heartbeat and captain.
Fernandes: The Stats and Impact
Since arriving from Sporting CP, Fernandes has contributed more than 150 goal involvements (goals + assists) in fewer than 230 games across all competitions. He has been the club’s most consistent attacking threat, leading in key metrics such as chances created, big chances created, and forward passes per game.
Even during United’s turbulent 2024/25 campaign, Fernandes remained a standout performer, scoring crucial goals and offering leadership on and off the pitch. His creative output, tactical discipline, and durability—he rarely misses games due to injury—make him irreplaceable in Erik ten Hag’s system.
Additionally, Fernandes was appointed club captain at the start of the season, a role he has embraced with pride and passion. Despite criticism early in the campaign for his emotional displays, he has matured as a leader, consistently demanding high standards and being one of the few players to front up in difficult moments.
Why United Want to Keep Him
The rationale behind offering Fernandes a new deal is rooted in several strategic objectives:
1. Leadership Continuity: Fernandes is seen as the ideal captain to guide younger players like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho as they become central figures in the team.
2. Tactical Centrality: He remains pivotal to Ten Hag’s plans as a box-to-box creator, often playing multiple roles—from deep-lying playmaker to advanced No.10.
3. Market Protection: Extending and enhancing his contract would deter bids from rival clubs while maintaining or increasing his transfer market value.
4. Commercial Value: Fernandes is a global brand ambassador for United. His popularity in Portugal and Latin America enhances the club’s reach and sponsorship appeal.
In short, losing Fernandes would be seen as a major step backwards at a time when United are trying to rebuild and reestablish themselves among Europe’s elite.
Potential Risks and Player’s View
While United are optimistic about securing Fernandes’ signature, the player himself is believed to want reassurances about the club’s ambition. Having just turned 30, Fernandes is entering what many consider the final peak years of his career. He wants to win major silverware and compete regularly in the Champions League—goals United have failed to meet consistently.
A source close to the player suggests that while Fernandes loves the club and enjoys his leadership role, he would want to see meaningful investment in the squad and a clear path back to regular contention for major honors.
If United fail to show real progress this summer—both in terms of signings and results—the possibility of Fernandes considering a move in the future can’t be ruled out, even with a new contract in place.
External Interest and Transfer Market Value
While no formal bids have been made, Fernandes has admirers across Europe. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Juventus have reportedly monitored his situation, though none of those clubs are currently in a financial position to meet United’s expected valuation of £70–£80 million.
In contrast, clubs in Saudi Arabia could easily match or exceed that figure. Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal have both previously shown interest, and Fernandes’ agent has reportedly been approached unofficially regarding future availability. These clubs could offer massive financial packages, but it remains unclear whether Fernandes would be willing to leave Europe at this stage of his career.
Fan Reaction
Manchester United fans have reacted positively to the reports, viewing a potential contract extension for Fernandes as essential to the club’s future. Many supporters see him as one of the few players consistently performing to a high standard, even when the team struggles.
Social media channels and fan forums have widely praised Fernandes’ commitment, work rate, and leadership, calling on the club to reward him accordingly and build the next generation of the squad around him.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s willingness to offer a new, lucrative contract to Bruno Fernandes, valued at £70m–£80m, sends a clear message: they are determined to retain their most valuable assets and build a competitive team under new leadership.
With Fernandes still in his prime and integral to both the dressing room and Ten Hag’s tactical blueprint, agreeing a new deal would represent a significant step toward squad stability and renewed ambition. The decision now rests with both the club and the player—to align on a vision for the future that includes silverware, leadership, and success at the highest level.
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