Man Utd line up Spanish midfield replacement if Bruno Fernandes leaves

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to launch a summer move for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Oihan Sancet, as uncertainty looms over the future of captain Bruno Fernandes.

United have identified Sancet as a top target and are willing to consider activating his €67.5 million (£58m) release clause if Fernandes decides to leave the club at the end of the season.

The Spanish international has enjoyed an impressive campaign in La Liga, emerging as one of the league’s most creative midfielders.

With Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia offering a big-money contract to Fernandes, and speculation mounting over a summer exit, United are exploring succession plans.

While Ruben Amorim has publicly declared his desire to keep Fernandes, the club is bracing for all outcomes — and Sancet has risen to the top of their shortlist.

The 24-year-old has scored 10 goals and registered 7 assists this season, and is known for his intelligent movement, close control, and ability to operate as a No. 10 or deep-lying playmaker.

His versatility would be a natural fit in Amorim’s system, which requires midfielders to be tactically fluid and technically sharp.

A source close to United’s recruitment team told Sports Mole: “Sancet is a player the club has admired for some time. He has the quality and the work rate United are looking for in midfield.”

Sancet is under contract with Bilbao until 2027, meaning the Spanish club is under no pressure to sell.

However, the presence of a release clause makes a deal straightforward if United are willing to meet the valuation. With Lisandro Martínez, Casemiro, and potentially Christian Eriksen all expected to leave, midfield will be a key area of focus in the rebuild.

If Fernandes stays, United may hold off on activating Sancet’s clause this summer — but if their captain departs, the Bilbao man could become priority number one in what is expected to be a high-turnover transfer window.