Amid Bruno Fernandes’ bombshell interview, Saudi Pro League sides have started to circle the current Manchester United captain.
Bruno Fernandes has recently raised fresh doubts about his long-term future at Manchester United, making several candid and concerning remarks, including reflections on a possible departure during the summer. At one stage, the club captain admitted: “I was going to leave.”
The Portugal international went on to explain what ultimately convinced him to remain at Old Trafford, revealing mixed emotions about the club’s stance. “The conversation with the coach also made me stay,” Fernandes said.
“But from the club’s side, I felt a bit of: ‘If you go, it’s not really that bad for us.’ That hurts me a little. More than hurting, it makes me sad, because I’m a player they have nothing to criticise me for.”
For now, it appears Fernandes will stay put until at least the end of the season, and he has been a standout performer for Rúben Amorim’s side.
In the Premier League, the 31-year-old has five goals and seven assists to his name, adding to his tally with a goal and an assist in United’s 4-4 draw with Bournemouth on Monday night. Even so, despite his strong form, there remains a lingering sense of uncertainty surrounding Fernandes’ future at the club.
Saudi’s Fernandes stance made clear
Amid Fernandes’ claims that he feels he does not get enough appreciation from United, the Saudi Pro League clubs are beginning to circle. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, they are set to make him a top target for the fourth summer window in a row, although no moves in January are expected.
“From Saudi, trust me, three years ago, 2023 already, Bruno Fernandes was wanted as a top target, and he said no. 2024, wanted as a top target, and he said no. 2025, wanted as a top target, and he said no,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.
“So Bruno was always wanted by Saudi, and it was always Bruno to stop that deal. Now, if you ask me what’s going to happen in 2026, what I can say is that, for January, the situation is more than quiet. So nothing is imminent, nothing is happening.
“For the summer transfer window, I would keep an eye on the interest from Saudi, because I think from Saudi they can retire for Bruno Fernandes. That is going to be up to Bruno, it’s going to be up to Man United again.
“Let’s see what’s going to happen before or after the World Cup. But I can guarantee, as I always tell you here on my channel, Bruno has always been one of the targets for the Saudi dealmakers. They will be back.”
United have already set Fernandes’ transfer fee
While the United captain has been of interest to Saudi sides for the last three summer windows, the 2025 transfer window was when he was closest to joining the club. However, if the Saudi Pro League want Fernandes there for next season, they will have to act fast.
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According to numerous reports, Fernandes has a release clause of just over £56 million in his contract that can be triggered by any non-English club, provided it meets certain conditions.
While these conditions aren’t spelt out, it’s rumoured that one of these is that the release clause must be triggered in the opening weeks of the summer window. This would give United plenty of time to find a replacement.
Last summer, Al-Hilal dealt with Fernandes very early on in the window, with his decision coming during the first few weeks of the summer. This time round, United would want any deal for Fernandes struck before the World Cup kicks off in mid-June.
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