Bruno Fernandes’s representatives have reportedly held talks with Al-Ittihad over a move this summer, with Manchester United reluctant to sell.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Bruno Fernandes’ representatives have reportedly held talks with Al-Ittihad over a potential move this summer. The news may surprise a few associated with Manchester United, given the Portugal international had rejected a move to Saudi Arabia earlier in the summer, as the club may not sanction a late sale of this magnitude.
Bruno Fernandes was the subject of intense speculation earlier in the summer when he was heavily linked with a switch away from Manchester United. Back then, Al-Hilal were eager to lure the Portugal international ahead of their Club World Cup campaign, and even presented a big offer to Manchester United in what could have been a club-record sale.
Al-Hilal were confident of sealing a deal and put in a deadline for Fernandes to accept the proposition, which, according to the report, would have allowed the midfielder to earn a massive salary. Fernandes turned down the idea of a move to Saudi Arabia, as he preferred to continue in Europe, specifically with Manchester United.
However, with the season already underway, fresh reports of links to Al-Ittihad have emerged in the English media. It appears the Manchester United star’s representatives held a meeting with Al-Ittihad over a move, and Fernandes even made salary demands.
There’s a possible indication that Fernandes might have been keen on a move if the numbers matched his demands. Al-Ittihad are also capable of paying a top fee for the Manchester United skipper, although there are fresh challenges for the Saudi Pro League side to complete this move within this window.
Manchester United are reluctant to sell Bruno Fernandes
As expected, Manchester United might have no intention of accepting a late offer for Fernandes. While a move to Saudi Arabia might prove lucrative for the player and the Red Devils, the idea of letting the team’s most important player leave may not suit the Red Devils. Moreover, there might not be enough time left in the market to find a capable replacement, while Ruben Amorim is keen to keep Fernandes.
The 30-year-old is key to Amorim’s plans for the season, and it might prove catastrophic from Manchester United’s perspective to sell him irrespective of the price being offered. Hence, the chances of Fernandes leaving for Al-Ittihad are slim, although the talks between the Saudi club with the Manchester United star’s representatives might work out as groundwork for a future move.