Bruno Fernandes has made a decision on his future at Manchester United - and it’s one that will force a complete rethink at Old Trafford.
Negotiations had advanced, according to the Mirror, with Saudi officials working in Paris to finalise multiple deals before the tournament.
But Fernandes ultimately declined the move.
While he acknowledged the financial and sporting appeal of the offer, Fernandes was apparently reluctant to uproot his young family from Manchester or walk away from top-level European football at this stage in his career.
With Fernandes staying, United’s leadership - headed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe - must now look elsewhere to raise funds in the transfer market. Sir Jim’s plan had been to sell the midfielder for top dollar, then use that money to rebuild the Man United squad.
Now, he will have to rethink that strategy.
Speaking after the Europa League final, Fernandes had conceded that he might have to be sold this summer, but added that his preference was to stay at Man United.
The Portuguese playmaker has committed to helping lead the club’s overhaul, which began with the £62.5m signing of Matheus Cunha and could continue with the arrival of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo - should he reject the affections of Liverpool and Newcastle United.
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