Bruno Fernandes' rumoured move could see him play at the FIFA Club World Cup
Manchester United fans are still getting over their disappointing 2024-25 campaign, but things could yet get worse, with rumours of a major departure at the club.
There's expected to be a summer of upheaval at the club as boss Ruben Amorim gets set to shape the squad in his mould ahead of his first full season in charge, and one of the major departures could be club captain Bruno Fernandes.
There is speculation that the talisman Fernandes is the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, who are keen to recruit the Portuguese ahead of their involvement in next month's FIFA Club World Cup - a tournament you can watch for free on DAZN.
Fernandes' representatives are said to have already spoken to the Saudi club and the move is currently the talk of United's camp in Asia, where they are on their end-of-season tour.
The midfielder turns 31 in September, and while United would loathe to lose their best player, Al Hilal are rumoured to be willing to pay around £80 million for his services, a fee that could help the club reinvest in the squad.
Speaking during his press conference ahead of the Red Devils' friendly against Hong Kong on Friday, Amorim praised his skipper but gave nothing away about his future with the club.
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"We talk about this many times," he said.
"You can see by his performances. You can see by his leadership. You can see the passion he has for the game. In difficult moments Bruno is the guy who takes responsibility. He should do because he is the captain."
FIFA has allocated an additional transfer window for clubs before the Club World Cup and Al Hilal are keen to recruit a big name to help them make an impact in the tournament, which kicks off on June 15.
They begin their campaign against Real Madrid in Group H and also play Red Bull Salzburg and Mexican side Pachuca in the group phase.
Club World Cup
Club World Cup
Fernandes, who signed for Manchester United in 2020, has a contract with the club until 2027 and the option for a further year, but despite being one of the club's biggest earners, knows he could double his earnings by moving to the Middle East.
He scored 19 goals this season in all competitions as United finished in their worst-ever Premier League position and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham, meaning they won't be playing European football in 2025-26.