Manchester United are in ongoing discussions with Bruno Fernandes regarding a significant contract extension that could keep the 31-year-old midfielder at Old Trafford until 2029. According to reports from TeamTalk, the INEOS-led football department has performed a strategic U-turn after previously considering a sale last summer. The new deal aims to reward the FWA Footballer of the Year for his record-breaking season and secure his future as the club returns to the UEFA Champions League.
Strategic shift and the Saudi interest U-turn
The decision to offer Fernandes a long-term extension marks a sharp departure from United's stance in the summer of 2025. According to OneFootball, both the United leadership and former manager Ruben Amorim were previously open to sanctioning a departure for the Portuguese international amid heavy interest from Al-Hilal. At that stage, United appeared ready to capitalise on a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League, but his subsequent form has made a sale tenable. Fernandes currently possesses a release clause for non-English clubs valued at approximately £57 million (€65 million), a figure United now view as significantly below his market value following a campaign in which he has set a new pace for the Premier League assists record.
Leadership under Michael Carrick and squad role
Internal dynamics at Carrington have shifted since Michael Carrick was appointed interim manager in January 2026. Fernandes has thrived under Carrick’s guidance, with his durability and fitness levels convincing the recruitment team that he can remain elite well into his thirties. Speaking to the Daily Express about his commitment to the club, Fernandes said, "Achieving success here is something I could never feel anywhere else." Sporting Director Dan Ashworth has corroborated this importance, stating via club channels that the midfielder's dedication "epitomises what it takes to be a United player" and remains pivotal to the club's long-term objectives. With United's Champions League return confirmed, the board views retention as a more cost-effective strategy than finding a replacement of comparable statistical output.
Negotiations are expected to continue through the early summer as the club looks to finalise terms before the preseason tour.