Al-Hilal confident of £100m Bruno Fernandes capture as Man Utd face financial pressure

Economic Times

a day ago

Manchester United's captain Bruno Fernandes is on the brink of a potentially transformative move to Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal, with multiple credible sources now reporting that a deal could be finalized within the next two weeks, ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.Fernandes's agent, Miguel Pinho, has engaged in advanced talks with Al-Hilal representatives, with discussions centered in Riyadh at the Four Seasons hotel. The Saudi club is reportedly willing to pay a transfer fee of £80 million, with some outlets suggesting figures as high as £100 million if United are willing to let their captain go. The financial package for Fernandes is expected to be substantial, with reports indicating a four-year contract worth €25 million per year net—tripling his current earnings at Old Trafford. Some sources have even mentioned a potential contract offer worth up to £200 million over the duration of the deal, though these figures may include bonuses and commercial incentives.Manchester United's financial woes have intensified following their failure to qualify for European competition, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe admitting the club would have 'gone bust by Christmas' without drastic cost-cutting measures.
Despite this, head coach Ruben Amorim has publicly stated his desire to keep Fernandes, praising his leadership, performances, and influence within the squad. 'He is crucial for us and for what we aspire to build as a team. We've discussed this numerous times. His performances speak volumes. His leadership is evident. His passion for the sport is clear. In challenging moments, Bruno is the one who steps up. He should, as he is the captain,' Amorim remarked during United's post-season tour.
Fernandes has not dismissed the possibility of leaving, and sources indicate he is giving serious consideration to the move, with Al-Hilal eager to secure his signature before the Club World Cup begins on June 14. The player himself has remained diplomatic, stating, 'I have always been honest. I've always said I will be here until the club says to me that it's time to go... If the club thinks it's time to part ways because they want to do some cashing in or whatever, it's what it is, and football sometimes is like this'.The potential departure of Fernandes would be a seismic event for Manchester United, who finished a disappointing 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham. Despite this, Fernandes remains a fan favorite, with most supporters reluctant to see him leave. However, the financial realities for United and the lucrative terms on offer from Al-Hilal could prove decisive. Former Premier League striker Tony Cascarino has urged United to accept a £100 million offer if it materializes, stating, 'I would snap their hand off... If they're getting offered £100m for a 30-year-old, you take it'.With negotiations ongoing and a decision expected soon, the football world is watching closely. Fernandes's next move could reshape both Manchester United's future and the global transfer market landscape, as Saudi clubs continue to flex their financial muscle ahead of the Club World Cup