Fabrizio Romano has provided a fresh update on Bruno Fernandes’ future as a Manchester United player, with rumours suggesting he could be set for a move away.
Bruno Fernandes has been one of the best – if not the best – players at Manchester United since he joined the club from Sporting CP under Ole Gunnar Solskjær. While his role has changed over the years, his importance to the Red Devils has not.
Under Rúben Amorim, Fernandes has largely played as a deep-lying playmaker in the double pivot ahead of the back three. The captain is now responsible for dictating play, rather than finishing chances as he was during his first months at the club.
Many have claimed that Fernandes would be better off as a No.10 in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 – which would also free up space for Kobbie Mainoo to start – but the Portugal international has yet to start a Premier League match in that role this season.
Recent reports stated that Fernandes could leave United at the end of the 2025/26 season – especially if United don’t improve – leaving the Red Devils without their long-term captain. Diogo Dalot or another member of the six-man leadership team could be forced into the role if Fernandes does leave.
Romano provides fresh Fernandes update
Saudi Arabian sides have been linked with Fernandes for years – with heavy interest this summer – and Fabrizio Romano has provided a fresh update on their interest.
Romano – via Give Me Sport – confirmed that Saudi sides remain interested in United’s star man, but there are no ongoing negotiations, with Fernandes’ “full focus” on United.
He went on to say: “Nothing at all at the moment. Full focus on United, new deal was signed one year ago, so nothing concrete at this stage. Saudis remain interested as they’ve been for the last three years but nothing else now.”
This comes just under a month after Romano said United fans should “keep an eye” on Fernandes and a possible Saudi move in 2026, with those sides holding a three-year interest in the playmaker.
Jason Wilcox would demand a high fee for Amorim’s current captain, so any move would be more likely to come during the summer transfer window, although a departure in the winter window can’t be ruled out if United continue to struggle.
Fernandes departure feels inevitable
While it won’t happen until the end of the season, Fernandes seems destined to leave United sooner rather than later, especially considering how poorly the Red Devils have played this season.
Fernandes has been forced into an uncomfortable position for him – with Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount playing his preferred role – and will want another chance to win serious silverware before hanging up the boots.
At 31 years old, Fernandes doesn’t have long left at the top of his game and will look for a move in the summer if United aren’t showing signs of improvement under Amorim.
A managerial change before January could see Fernandes look for an earlier exit, as starting another rebuild would be pointless at his age, despite his obvious ability.
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