Bruno Fernandes Spurns Multimillion-Dollar Offer from Saudi Giants Al Hilal, Opting Instead for European Football
Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes declines Al Hilal's proposal; Saudi powerhouse turns attentions towards securing Fernandes deal
Manchester United's star captain, Bruno Fernandes, has shunned a jaw-dropping contract proposition from Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal. Weeks of negotiations and persistent attempts by the Saudi side have failed to lure the 31-year-old Portuguese playmaker, who remains steadfast in his pursuit of European glory.
Fernandes, instrumental to United's success since his arrival in 2020, is dead set on achieving further success on the old continent. Al Hilal attempted to nab Fernandes ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup later this year, offering an eye-watering deal filled with mind-boggling financial incentives. However, these enticements fell on deaf ears, as Fernandes scornfully rejected the overture, electing to stay in Europe and steer a summer renaissance at Old Trafford.
Though Al Hilal's pursuit of Fernandes may have implications for Manchester United, it could inadvertently set off a transfer saga involving Atalanta's Ederson - another player high on United's transfer wishlist. With Fernandes out of reach, Al Hilal are rumored to have their sights set on the Brazilian midfielder.
Under new manager Ruben Amorim, United are eager to bolster their midfield options once primary attacking fortifications are put in place. The Red Devils have already secured a deal for Wolves striker Matheus Cunha and are close to inking Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo, who has reportedly given the go-ahead for a move to Old Trafford.
Upon finalizing these deals and confirming a few player sales, Manchester United is expected to return its focus to midfield reinforcements, with Ederson a top target. The Saudi interest in Fernandes could potentially trigger a transfer battle, especially with Manchester City also monitoring Ederson, who carries a rumored price tag of £50 million.
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- Fun Fact In 2025, almost trebling Fernandes' current weekly wage from £250,000 to £700,000 still falls short of the world's highest paid footballer's weekly salary. Neymar Jr., a Paris Saint-Germain forward, currently earns around £925,000 per week.
Source: BBC Sport, Sky Sports, The Guardian, ESPN
- Despite Al Hilal's aggressive pursuit, Bruno Fernandes, the Manchester United captain, maintains his commitment to European football.
- With Bruno Fernandes out of the picture, Al Hilal's attention may shift towards Atalanta's midfielder Ederson, who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford as a potential replacement.
- After securing Matheus Cunha and getting close to a deal for Bryan Mbeumo, Manchester United is anticipated to refocus on midfield, possibly engaging in a transfer battle for Ederson alongside Manchester City.
