Bruno Fernandes Stays at Manchester United… For Now, With 2026 Exit Possible
Manchester, England – Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes will remain with the club for the current season, despite strong interest from Saudi Arabian clubs this summer, according too multiple reports. While a move to the Saudi Pro League was considered,Fernandes is prioritizing playing for portugal in the 2026 World Cup and has opted to stay at Old Trafford for the immediate future.
The news comes from football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who stated, “But at the moment it’s not something close or imminent for Bruno to join Al Ittihad.So at the moment Man Utd keep thinking Bruno will complete this season at the club and then we will see from 2026.”
However, the situation isn’t a definitive long-term commitment. Both The Daily Mail and The Guardian report Fernandes could be open to leaving after the 2025-26 season, when he will be approaching his 32nd birthday. The Daily Mail notes Fernandes “will be open to leaving Manchester United at the end of the season… wants to stay at Old Trafford for another season and avoid any disruption before playing for Portugal in the World Cup next summer.” Potential destinations include Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer (MLS), or a return to one of Europe’s major leagues.
fernandes’ contract situation adds another layer to the potential for a future departure. He currently earns £280,000 per week and has one year remaining on his deal, with United holding an option to extend it for an additional 12 months.
The possibility of a sale next summer is also linked to Manchester United’s evolving tactical setup under manager Ruben Amorim. Recent meaningful investments in forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha – totaling £130 million - have seemingly filled the two No.10 positions in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. The Guardian even theorized that United might use funds from a potential Fernandes sale to pursue a bid of over £100 million for Carlos Baleba. however, with Fernandes remaining at the club for now, that move has been postponed until at least the summer of 2026.
Context & Background:
Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for a reported fee of £46.6 million (plus add-ons). He quickly became a pivotal figure for the club, renowned for his creativity, work rate, and leadership qualities. He was appointed captain in July 2023, succeeding Harry Maguire.
His consistent performances have made him a fan favorite, but the club’s recent struggles and the financial pressures of modern football mean no player is entirely untouchable. The influx of new attacking talent suggests a potential shift in strategy, and the financial incentive of a large transfer fee could prove tempting should Fernandes indicate a desire to move on.
Further Manchester United Transfer News:
Real Madrid is reportedly considering a loan bid for a currently unnamed “disgruntled Man Utd star.”
Manchester United has reportedly reached an “agreement in principle” for a transfer involving an £86 million player.
* A complete list of Manchester United’s completed summer 2025 transfers (signings, exits, and loans) is available.
