With rumours continuing to arrive around Bruno Fernandes' future, INEOS are now reportedly readying a big-money move to sign a £67m star who could eventually succeed their captain at Manchester United this summer.
Bruno Fernandes concern still lurking
Where Manchester United would be without Fernandes is a scary thought, given that with their captain they've fallen as low as 16th in the Premier League. But it's a reality that they may be forced to live out this summer amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
In a squad full of struggling players, it is Fernandes who has been at the centre of anything good during Ruben Amorim's six-month stint. Even as those around him have struggled, the Portugal international has managed a stunning 19 goals and 19 assists in all competitions. Take those 38 goal involvements away and the worst-case scenario would become all too realistic for the Red Devils.
With that said, Amorim has made his stance as clear as anything when it comes to Fernandes' potential departure, recently telling reporters: "Our idea didn't change. We want to keep the best players - and Bruno is clearly one of the top players in the world. We want Bruno here.
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Amorim is reportedly a huge fan.
"It is easy to understand [his importance] - not just because of the numbers but the way he plays and the importance he has during his five years here. It's normal a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno. He is a leader and he's the captain, so he's really important. He is a top player, we need top players."
Man Utd readying Sancet move
Amorim's stance has not stopped those at Old Trafford from preparing for the worst, however. According to reports in Spain, INEOS are now readying a big-money move to sign Oihan Sancet, who has a release clause worth as much as €80m (£67m) at Athletic Bilbao. The deal, therefore, certainly wouldn't come cheap, but Sancet's talent is undeniable nonetheless.
League stats 24/25 (via FBref) Oihan Sancet Bruno Fernandes
Starts 18 33
Goals 15 8
Assists 1 9
Key Passes 19 88
With 15 goals to his name in just 18 La Liga starts this season, Sancet is one of few box-crashing midfielders who could replace Fernandes' goalscoring touch at Old Trafford, albeit whilst lacking the same creative output.
oihan-sancet-athletic-bilbao
Amorim's system could be a perfect fit for the Bilbao star too, with his 3-4-2-1 system operating with two No.10 roles. Sancet would, of course, seamlessly slot into one of those roles, but it's hard not to imagine the partnership that Manchester United could form if they sign the Spaniard and keep hold of Fernandes this summer.
Dubbed "underrated" by analyst Ben Mattinson, Sancet could finally find his place in the spotlight by completing a move to Old Trafford in the coming months.