Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is seriously considering a surprise exit from Old Trafford to join Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal, in a deal that could be completed as early as next week.
Sources close to the situation confirm that Fernandes’ representatives recently held discussions with Al-Hilal officials about a potential move that would not only double the midfielder’s current salary but also allow him to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
The prospect of Fernandes leaving has been a major talking point during United’s post-season tour of Asia. Although the 30-year-old has continued to perform professionally and uphold his leadership role during training sessions, his silence regarding his future has raised eyebrows. Some within the squad now believe the Portuguese international may be ready to leave.
Manchester United, for their part, remain calm. While head coach Ruben Amorim has expressed a desire to keep Fernandes, who earlier this month was named the club’s Player of the Year for a joint-record fourth time, he is also aware that a reported £80 million fee from Al-Hilal could provide significant funds to reshape the squad.
“We talk about this many times,” Amorim said when asked about the situation. “You can see by his performances, his leadership, and the passion he has for the game. In difficult moments, Bruno is the one who takes responsibility. He should—he’s the captain.”
Al-Hilal are aiming to make a statement with its squad ahead of a tough Club World Cup group that includes Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, and Mexican side Pachuca. Adding Fernandes, one of United’s few consistent performers this season, would certainly grab global headlines.
Fernandes signed a contract extension in August 2023 that ties him to United until 2027, with an option for a further year. He is currently one of the highest-paid players at the club, but the Saudi offer is believed to be significantly more lucrative.
Despite United’s turbulent 2024–25 campaign, Fernandes ended as the club’s top scorer with 19 goals in all competitions. Many observers, including pundits and fans alike, believe his performances were key to United avoiding a deeper crisis. Others, such as former captain Roy Keane, have remained critical of the midfielder, suggesting his lack of discipline contributes to the club’s ongoing struggles.
Fernandes joined United in January 2020 from Sporting Lisbon for £47 million and has since made 290 appearances, scoring 98 goals and assisting countless others. His vision, work rate, and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favourite, although he has not been without controversy.
The prospect of him lining up for Al-Hilal next to the likes of Neymar and Aleksandar Mitrović—and against former teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, now at Real Madrid—adds intrigue to what promises to be one of the most exciting Club World Cup editions to date.
As Fernandes prepares to feature in United’s friendly match in Hong Kong on Friday, speculation about his future continues to swirl. Whether the Red Devils choose to cash in or hold onto their captain could define the start of Amorim’s rebuilding project—and shape the club’s immediate future.
