Fresh off a record-breaking season, Manchester United's captain has attracted interest from Juventus. The Italian giants are weighing a bold move to lure the creative talisman back to Serie A.
Manchester United's midfield recruitment has been the centre of attention for the club during the transfer window. Both Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa have completed the move to Old Trafford, but more change is still expected in Michael Carrick's midfield department.
With United confirming a place in next season's UEFA Champions League, squad depth will prove to be vital to balance minutes between Carrick's men.
However, captain Bruno Fernandes caught the eye of one of Europe's biggest clubs after his standout season – breaking the Premier League assist record with 21 assists. His entourage has reportedly received contact with the aspiration of a shock transfer.
According to reports from CaughtOffside, Juventus are exploring the possibility of bringing Bruno Fernandes to the Serie A in a shock move this summer. The Manchester United captain has been added to the Italian giants' midfield shortlist.
Juventus reportedly aim to up the technical output of the squad with sporting director Frederic Massara viewing Fernandes as a suitable fit.
Fernandes currently has one year remaining on his contract, but the club have the option to extend the Portuguese international's stay for another year. Furthermore, talks over a new contract have been progressing as Fernandes' future at Old Trafford looks more likely.
With Juventus contacting the appropriate representatives, a move still remains unrealistic given Fernandes' wages and expected transfer fee in the region of €50m-75m (£43m-64m). Fernandes is probably the first name on Carrick's team sheet, loved by the fans and by far United's standout player last season, making the idea of a move highly doubtful.
A move to Juventus would be a return to Serie A for Fernandes, who last played in Italy for Sampdoria in 2016/17. His creative spark would be suited to the Italian league, which would permit Fernandes more time on the ball to scope out options and spark chances.
Nonetheless, the 31-year-old has proven his ability to perform in the Premier League and is expected to continue to do so.
The arrivals of Santos and Tielemans alongside the assumed signing of an athletic midfielder have raised questions over what Michael Carrick will utilise as his strongest midfield trio.
With Carrick's ambition to have a more controlled play style in games, having the ability to quickly break opposition attacks, retain possession and create chances is essential next season.
Fernandes will most likely be an ever-present in Carrick's side, with his availability being near faultless in his seven seasons in red. Juventus' interest in Fernandes will likely be dismissed by United, with the captain looking eager to return to the squad following Portugal's World Cup campaign.
For now, United's attention will likely remain on arrivals over departures, with the midfield remaining as a priority area to address to play alongside Fernandes.