Man Utd claims Only four players in English Premier League can replace Bruno Fernandez
Manchester United could face a challenge in the summer as the Saudi Pro League is reportedly interested in signing Bruno Fernandes. Clubs from Saudi Arabia made an attempt to sign Fernandes during the January transfer window, but were unsuccessful. They are now planning to revisit the transfer in the summer. Al-Hilal is one of the teams interested, but there may be others as well.
Manchester United is at a critical point in their history and may be tempted to let Fernandes go. His departure would mark the beginning of the INEOS era at Old Trafford, as he has become an icon for the Glazer family in recent years. However, Fernandes is also one of United’s most reliable players, especially in his specific role as a playmaker. It would be difficult to find a replacement who can perform at the same level.
Data analytics experts SciSports have analyzed players who have similar playing styles, passing abilities, offensive positioning, defensive skills, and potential as Fernandes. They have identified only three players who realistically have the qualities to join Manchester United.
In an ideal scenario, Jamal Musiala would be the top choice, but it is unlikely that Bayern Munich would let go of their young prospect unless United pays significantly more than his market value of €95 million. Given the need for squad reconstruction and financial constraints, this is highly unlikely.
James Maddison is another player who has been linked with Manchester United in the past, but he recently moved to Tottenham, making a deal unlikely.
This leaves three more viable options. Julian Brandt, at 27 years old, may be older than United would prefer for a new signing. However, considering the limited options available as replacements for Fernandes, he could be a strong choice. He is an experienced player who could provide an immediate upgrade.
Brandt is valued at €40 million, which is a reasonable price. Arsenal and Newcastle have also shown interest in him, and it may be difficult to lure him away from his current club as he still has over two years left on his contract.
The other two options for Manchester United are younger prospects. Bilal El Khannouss, a 19-year-old Moroccan international, and Oscar Gloukh, a teenager from Red Bull Salzburg and Israel international, are both highly regarded. SciSports believes that El Khannouss has more potential, and he is also the cheaper option with an Estimated Transfer Value of €15 million, compared to Gloukh’s €16.5 million.
Man United fans receive incredible news with latest update on £57m man’s injury fears
Sports Press Photo
Man United impressed on Sunday defeating West Ham 3-0 at Old Trafford but the day was overshadowed by an injury to Lisandro Martinez which many thought was a serious knee injury.
West Ham defender Vladimir Coufal landed on the Argentina star’s leg and the centre-back immediately clutched it in pain.
That prompted everyone to think the worst but reliable Argentine journalist Gaston Edul has reported that the issue is not the player’s ACL. The World Cup winner has sprained his collateral ligament and will not require any surgery.
Martinez is expected to be out for a month and a half to two months, with Man United expecting him back after international break in March.
?? Lisandro Martínez injury update.
It’s NOT an ACL injury, sources confirm.
Argentinian defender has a sprained collateral ligament — #MUFC hope to have Lisandro back after international break in March.
No surgery needed, as @gastonedul has reported. pic.twitter.com/aG7DpW2VW9
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 5, 2024
This is huge news for Man United fans as they only got Martinez back last month following his long-term foot injury and it would have been a shame if the defender had to miss the rest of the season and the Copa America this summer.
The 26-year-old has become a fan favourite at Old Trafford since making the £57m move from Ajax in 2022 and will still be able to make an impact on the current campaign towards the end of the season.
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