Manchester United have made their position clear on Bruno Fernandes. The Red Devils do not intend to entertain any offers for their captain ahead of the summer transfer window deadline.
Galatasaray are among the clubs considering a move for the United captain, while Juventus and AC Milan have also been mentioned in reports, as per BBC. No formal offer has arrived yet, but Manchester United are understood to have no intention of selling the Portugal international.
It is a very different message from the one Fernandes received last summer.
United won’t sell Bruno Fernandes this time
Twelve months ago, Manchester United left the decision in Fernandes’ hands when Al-Hilal came forward with a huge proposal. The midfielder ultimately stayed, although he later admitted that he was hurt by the club’s stance at the time.
This time, the club has been very vocal. Bruno Fernandes is not for sale.
That will come as a major boost for Bruno Fernandes who has repeatedly made his desire to compete for the biggest trophies at United clear. Despite the uncertainty over his contract, the 31-year-old remains committed to the club and would prefer to stay.
Bruno Fernandes has one year left on his current deal, with United holding an option for another season. There has been no agreement over a new contract so far.
Galatasaray, meanwhile, are prepared to make a serious attempt to change his mind. The Turkish club are reportedly willing to offer Fernandes a four-year deal worth £18.3m net per season, alongside a €4m signing-on bonus.
The Turkish giants are determined to test United’s resolve with a £42.7m offer.
Fernandes still has plenty to offer United
There is also a very good footballing reason for United to keep their captain.
Fernandes produced one of his best seasons last term, setting a new Premier League record with 21 assists. That took him beyond the previous record jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
Fernandes’ release clause, which would have allowed him to leave for €65m (£55.6m), also expired last month. That gives United even more control over the situation.
The midfielder has already turned down massive offers from Saudi Arabia in the past. He has also challenged United to build a team capable of competing for major honours. With a return to Champions League this season and an improved environment under Michael Carrick, there is no reason for Bruno Fernandes to consider anything else.
Bruno Fernandes has stayed despite lucrative offers because he still believes there is something worth achieving at Old Trafford. Manchester United are showing that they see it the same way.
Galatasaray may be preparing a huge offer, but unless something changes dramatically, Bruno Fernandes will remain Manchester United’s captain when the transfer window closes.
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