Manchester United’s captain
Bruno Fernandes is at the centre of a major transfer saga, with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal prepared to pay up to £100 million to secure his services.
The Portuguese international’s agent, Miguel Pinho, has travelled to Riyadh for talks with senior Al Hilal executives, a move that has been interpreted as a positive sign by insiders at the Saudi club.
Al Hilal’s offer is not only substantial in terms of the transfer fee but would also make Fernandes one of the best-paid footballers in the world.
The Saudi club is willing to almost treble his current £250,000-a-week wages at
Old Trafford, presenting a significant financial incentive for the 30-year-old midfielder.
Fernandes, who will turn 31 in September, signed a contract extension with Manchester United last summer that runs until 2027, with the option of an additional year.
Despite United’s desire to retain their captain, Al Hilal are operating under the belief that every player has a price—especially one approaching his thirties and with a contract that still holds considerable value, reported the
Telegrah.
The situation has left the decision firmly in Fernandes’ hands, with the player expected to clarify his intentions after United’s upcoming match in Hong Kong on Friday.
Ruben Amorim has publicly praised Fernandes’ leadership qualities, describing them as vital for the club’s future ambitions.
However, the Portuguese manager is also aware of the financial realities facing the club after a disappointing season that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and miss out on European football.
Al Hilal are aiming to make at least one high-profile signing before the Club World Cup in the United States this June, where they will compete against some of the world’s top clubs.
The Saudi club is also expected to appoint a new head coach, with current Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi reportedly lined up for the role after this weekend’s Champions League final1.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the spotlight remains firmly on
Bruno Fernandes and his future. Should he accept Al Hilal’s offer, it would mark the end of an era at Old Trafford and could trigger a significant rebuild under Amorim.
For now, all eyes are on Fernandes as he prepares to lead his team in Hong Kong, with the football world waiting to see whether he will remain a Manchester United player or take up a lucrative new challenge in Saudi Arabia