Gary Neville admits he is on the fence over Bruno Fernandes' future amid Saudi interest in the Manchester United talisman and potential £100million fee
Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes has been mulling over his Manchester United future
(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Gary Neville reckons the uncertainty surrounding Bruno Fernandes’ future is a no-lose situation for Manchester United.
Fernandes won the club’s player of the year award for a record-equalling fourth time, having been a shining light during the Red Devils’ worst top-flight campaign in more than 50 years. Fernandes admitted after the Europa League final loss to Tottenham that United could end up cashing in on him, with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal pushing to sign the 30-year-old playmaker ahead of the Club World Cup.
He was said to be seriously considering the big-money proposal, with Al-Hilal willing to pay up to £100million and give him a huge hike in wages. However, according to fresh reports, the Portugal international has shunned Al-Hilal’s advances and looks set to remain at Old Trafford after consulting with his family.
Speaking ahead of the latest development, Neville insisted the reported £100million fee would have been a good deal for United, who desperately need to revamp their squad while remaining within profit and sustainability rules (PSR) limits. However, he also said Ruben Amorim’s side needs a player of his quality and character.
Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer show, the former United defender said: “I’m torn on this one because, if the £100million fee is right and United get that, I don’t think it’s a bad fee.
“In fact, I think it’s a great fee for someone at that age. United have had great years out of him.
Gary Neville
Gary Neville is "torn" over Fernandes' United future(Image: It's Called Soccer)
“But I also think, if he stays, [he’s saying] ‘No, I want fight this out and turn it around’. I also think that’s a great thing as well.
“So I’m 50-50 in what I think about it. The £100million United need to rebuild the squad. On the other hand, they need players with personality and quality, and they haven’t got that many. In fact, he’s the only one they’ve got. For me, it's a no-lose situation.”
Fernandes led United out as they rounded off their post-season trip to Asia with a 3-1 friendly win against Hong Kong. Asked whether that might have been Fernandes’ last United appearance, Amorim said: “I don’t think so.
Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United
Fernandes looks set to stay at United(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“I don’t know for sure, nobody knows, but I don’t think so. I think he is seeing us taking some actions to change all the things and I think that is all that he asked. I think he wants to stay.
“He’s saying no to a lot of things, but it shows that he wants to win and I think he’s really young, he’s really good. He needs to be in the best league in the world.”
The £100m figure would help fund this summer’s much-needed rebuild as United navigate PSR. Pushed on whether United could turn down such a fee, Amorim said: “Yes, yes. We can find another way to earn money.”