Arjun Menon
Manchester United are bracing themselves for a fresh, high-stakes bid from Saudi giants Al-Nassr, as they intensify efforts to land club captain Bruno Fernandes before the transfer window closes.
Earlier this summer, Al-Hilal reportedly came close to signing the Portuguese midfielder, with a £100 million deal on the table. However, Fernandes stood firm, stating:
“Manchester United said they didn’t want to sell me. They said if I wanted to go I could, but they didn’t need the money. I want to play at the highest possible level. I want to play major competitions. I know I still can and I want to be happy doing the thing I love the most.”
The midfielder’s loyalty to United and desire for elite competition ultimately saw off Al-Hilal’s advances. But the Saudi Pro League isn’t backing down just yet.
Al-Nassr’s Renewed Push
According to A Bola, Al-Nassr are now making a serious play to sign Fernandes, with head coach Jorge Jesus—who previously managed the player at Sporting CP—and superstar Cristiano Ronaldo both spearheading the pursuit.
Initial contact has reportedly been made, and the club is pulling out all the stops to convince Fernandes to make the switch. With Fernandes currently on United’s pre-season tour in the United States, internal discussions at Old Trafford are ramping up.
Having already secured Joao Felix from Chelsea, Al-Nassr are looking to bolster their attacking options further and have also expressed interest in United winger Antony. Their mission? Win the 2025 Saudi Pro League title—and Fernandes could be key.
United’s Stance: Not for Sale
Letting go of Fernandes—United’s most influential figure since his arrival in January 2020—would be catastrophic. In 290 appearances, he’s delivered a staggering 98 goals and 86 assists. Last season alone, he racked up 19 goals and 19 assists across all competitions, including 8 goals and 11 assists in the Premier League.
While a mega-money sale would provide a welcome financial boost, it would also send the wrong message during a crucial rebuilding phase. Fernandes is more than a player; he’s the heartbeat of United’s midfield.
Final Word
Money talks in modern football—and Al-Nassr have plenty of it. But Manchester United know the value of Bruno Fernandes goes far beyond his price tag. With Ronaldo’s club circling, this saga is far from over. For now, United remain firm: Fernandes stays.