Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is a summer transfer target for Real Madrid in the wake of his fine form this season but Roy Keane has his own thoughts on the midfielder
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Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes warming up before a game
Bruno Fernandes is a summer transfer target for Real Madrid(Image: James Holyoak/MB Media)
Bruno Fernandes often divides opinions, but there is no denying the Manchester United captain is supremely talented. So, with that in mind, perhaps it should come as no surprise to learn that Real Madrid are said to be pursuing the Portugal midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window.
The form of Fernandes, 30, has been one of the few shining lights in a poor season for the Red Devils. And with United some way behind their Premier League rivals when it comes to challenging for major honours, Fernandes' future could become a huge talking point again in the coming months, just like it was last summer.
The Star revealed on Saturday that Real Madrid are keen on adding Fernandes to Carlo Ancelotti's squad with scouts attending most of United's matches this season.
Fernandes only signed a new contract last summer but his desire to win trophies could make a move to Spain irresistible as United wait to see what Real's next move will be.
While Fernandes' ability on the pitch is rarely in question, his body language and attitude has been picked apart by some pundits in the past. Former United captain Roy Keane is among those who feel Fernandes should not wear the armband.
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The Irishman also scoffed recently during a Rest is Football episode when Ian Wright asked where United would be in the league were it not for the marvellous form of Fernandes. They were 15th at the time of recording, but Keane was baffled. He said: "Save us? They're 15th in the league and he's saving them? Praise the lord. You have to have a starting point. I go back to it all - talent is not enough. Bruno's a talented player, but talent's not enough."
When Ian Wright then attempted to mount a defence of Fernandes, Keane continued: "You talk to me [about] who you were in a dressing room with. 'Tony Adams was this', 'Tony Adams was that'. Yeah, because he was a fighter. Bruno's not a fighter. You've got young players. You have to look at somebody and go 'I like what he does'.
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Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane speaking
Roy Keane has been critical of Fernandes in the past
"They all can't put the ball in the top of the net from 25 yards, I get that. But you want someone who is going, 'Lads, are you with me?'"
While Keane may not be Fernandes' biggest fan, Ruben Amorim has repeatedly lauded his captain since succeeding Erik ten Hag in November.
But while the Red Devils boss may hold Fernandes in the highest regard, United's bleak financial situation could leave them with a big dilemma if Real Madrid do choose to firm up their interest in Fernandes in the coming months.
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