Manchester United are determined to keep Bruno Fernandes and intend to reject any offers for their captain before next month’s transfer deadline.
Galatasaray, Juventus and AC Milan have all been considering whether to test United’s resolve over the 31-year-old midfielder. Galatasaray were reportedly preparing a proposal that could have reached a final value of around €50m (£42.7m).
However, senior figures at Old Trafford have made it clear that the Turkish club would be wasting its time pursuing a deal.
United’s position represents a significant change from last summer. At that time, the club allowed Fernandes to decide whether he wanted to accept a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The Portugal international later admitted that he was hurt by the club’s stance.
This time, United have made their position much clearer: Fernandes is not for sale at any price.
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Fernandes Remains a Key Part of United’s Plans
There have been no formal bids for Fernandes so far, but United’s stance remains firm. The club considers the midfielder an important part of its plans and has no intention of entertaining offers for him.
Fernandes currently has one year remaining on his contract, with United holding an option to extend the agreement for another season. The midfielder is understood to prefer remaining at Old Trafford.
A £57m release clause in his contract has also expired, meaning interested clubs no longer have the option of triggering that figure.
Despite the club’s determination to keep him, United have yet to reach an agreement with Fernandes over a new long-term contract.
That leaves some uncertainty surrounding his future beyond the existing terms, although the club’s current position is that he will remain at Manchester United.
United Fans Make Their Feelings Clear
Fernandes’ importance to United was made particularly clear during last week’s pre-season meeting with Leeds in Dublin.
The Portugal international received an enthusiastic reception from the supporters, highlighting his status as one of the club’s most popular and influential players.
United will be aware that any decision to sell their captain would likely provoke a strong reaction from the fanbase.
The response in Dublin underlined the importance of Fernandes to the supporters and the pressure on the club to demonstrate that it is doing everything possible to retain its talisman.
Fernandes’ Record-Breaking Season
Fernandes strengthened his importance to Manchester United with an outstanding individual campaign.
He registered a Premier League record 21 assists last season, underlining his influence in the final third and his importance to United’s attacking play.
His performances have also put him among the leading contenders for the PFA Player of the Year award for 2025-26.
With his contract situation still unresolved, United face an important decision over the coming months. But for now, the message from Old Trafford is unequivocal: Manchester United want Bruno Fernandes to stay, and the club are not prepared to sell their captain regardless of the offer.