Real Madrid could now make a January bid for a Manchester United star who Ruben Amorim has been full of praise for, and they could be forced to sanction a sale.
Man Utd's January transfer plans taking shape
The January transfer window begins in just over one week, and Amorim has made it clear that any new additions will have to be a good long-term fit for Man United, rather than stop-gap signings until the end of the season.
The United boss said: "The only thing we know is we will only try to bring players that we think are going to be the future.
"It’s not going to be to save something in this moment, to cope with the losses of three players for AFCON, it’s not going to be like that.
"Even if we try to bring one player, maybe it’s not the position that we need more. We will try to bring now, and [at] the end of the season, players that are perfect for our future."
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim reacts after the match
One position in which it may be crucial to strengthen is central midfield, with replacements being identified for Casemiro, as the Brazilian's contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old may be heading for the exit door, alongside Kobbie Mainoo, and the Red Devils may even be rocked by the departure of another midfielder, as Real Madrid could make a January offer for captain Bruno Fernandes.
That is according to a report from Spain, which states Madrid could make a move next month, and Man United may be forced to cash-in, should they receive an offer of around €60m (£52m), given a release clause in the Portugal international's contract.
The 31-year-old isn't a priority target for the La Liga side, in light of his age, but he is highly regarded at Real Madrid, and is considered a real option.
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He's a rising star.
Losing "great leader" Fernandes would be major blow for Man Utd
The £300k-a-week United star, who is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world, has undoubtedly been one of the best signings post Sir Alex Ferguson, regularly contributing goals and assists since arriving during the 2019-20 campaign.
Season Premier League appearances Goal involvements
2019-20 14 15
2020-21 37 29
2021-22 36 16
2022-23 37 16
2023-24 35 18
2024-25 36 19
2025-26 17 12
As shown by his performances this term, the Portuguese maestro is still at the top of his game, and Amorim is clearly a big admirer, having described him as a "great leader" and a "great footballer" earlier this season.
With the former Sporting CP man admitting he was frustrated by INEOS' willingness to let him leave in the summer, he is unlikely to be in the good books of the ownership right now.
However, Man United should do everything they can to keep hold of Fernandes, as it would be very difficult to replace their captain.