Bruno Fernandes breaks silence on his Man United transfer decision
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has spoken out after turning down a lucrative switch to Al-Hilal of the Saudi Pro League.
It is understood that Fernandes gave serious thought to switching sides this summer. His representative, Miguel Pinho, had discussions with the club from the Middle East regarding a staggering £100million deal, and Man Utd did not rule out the idea of cashing in on their star man.
However, as of Tuesday, it was reported that Fernandes had decided against the move to Al-Hilal following family deliberations. The United playmaker has now opened up about his choice whilst away on international duty.
"There was an opportunity," he revealed during Portugal's press conference before their match on Tuesday night. "The president called me and asked if I wanted to go there.
"They were waiting for me. I spoke to coach [Ruben] Amorim. He asked me not to go.", reports the Manchester Evening News.
"Manchester United didn't want to sell me. They don't need the money. If I had wanted to leave, they would have made it happen."
He also said: "Al Hilal were very kind. They spoke to my agent. Then I spoke to my wife. She asked: 'What do you want to do?' She always supports my decisions.
"It would have been easy to move there. I know the Portuguese players there very well. But I want to play at the highest level and compete for major titles.
"I can do that, and I still want to. I'm very passionate about football."
Since joining from Sporting in January 2020, Fernandes has netted 98 goals and supplied 86 assists in all competitions for the Reds. His existing contract at United is due to run out in June 2027.
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