Manchester United are bracing themselves for a blockbuster £90million transfer bid from Real Madrid for their captain, Bruno Fernandes, as the Spanish giants look to capitalize on the Portuguese midfielder’s stellar performances this season.
Despite United’s turbulent 2024-2025 campaign, which sees them languishing in 13th in the Premier League, Fernandes has been a standout, notching 16 goals and 16 assists across all competitions.
Real Madrid have been closely monitoring the 30-year-old, with scouts reportedly attending nearly every United match—home and away—in recent weeks, eyeing him as a long-term successor to the aging Luka Modric, who turns 40 in September and is out of contract this summer.
Fernandes, who joined United from Sporting Lisbon in 2020, signed a contract extension in August 2024, tying him to Old Trafford until 2027, with an option for an additional year.
However, United’s dire financial situation, compounded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group making 200 staff redundant and cutting Sir Alex Ferguson’s £200m-a-year ambassador role, could force their hand if a substantial offer arrives.
The report suggests United face a “dilemma”—Fernandes has been their talisman, driving them to the 2022-23 Carabao Cup and last season’s FA Cup, yet cashing in could ease their monetary woes.
Real Madrid’s interest adds intrigue to Fernandes’ future. Manager Carlo Ancelotti sees him fitting seamlessly alongside stars like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Jr., potentially forming a fearsome midfield.
The article hints at Fernandes’ own ambitions, noting his past frustrations with United’s lack of competitiveness, though he’s previously expressed loyalty, saying he stayed because the club “needed me.”
With United’s Europa League campaign as their only shot at silverware this season, and a crucial Manchester Derby looming on April 6, the transfer talk could unsettle an already fragile squad. For now, Fernandes remains United’s heartbeat—but Real Madrid’s allure might soon test that bond.
