Bruno Fernandes 'spoke with Cristiano Ronaldo' over move to Saudi Pro League

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has rejected three approaches from Saudi Pro League clubs this summer, including a direct pitch influenced by former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo.

According to TalkSPORT, Fernandes was the subject of serious interest from the Middle East, with offers that would have significantly increased his already high wages.

Despite the financial pull, the 30-year-old midfielder has chosen to stay at Old Trafford — at least for the upcoming season.

Sources close to the player suggest that Fernandes weighed up his options carefully, but several factors ultimately kept him in Manchester.

First, he remains central to United’s ambitions under new manager Rúben Amorim. In a team battling inconsistency and injuries, Fernandes is not only a creative fulcrum but also a leader who carries considerable influence in the dressing room.

Second, international football played a role. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Fernandes is determined to remain at the highest competitive level in Europe to safeguard his spot with Portugal.

A move to Saudi Arabia, while lucrative, could have risked his standing in the national team.

Family stability is also understood to have influenced his decision. Having settled in Manchester since arriving from Sporting CP in 2020, Fernandes and his family are reportedly reluctant to relocate at this stage of his career.

That said, this may not be the end of the story. Reports hint that this could be Fernandes’ last season at Manchester United, as the player will reassess his future next summer.

Much may depend on the club’s direction under Amorim and whether INEOS can deliver the competitive squad Fernandes has long demanded.

For now, though, fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Their captain has resisted the lure of Saudi riches and reaffirmed his short-term commitment to United.

With the Manchester derby looming and the season already at a crossroads, Fernandes’ loyalty and leadership could prove decisive in steering the club through a turbulent period.