Bruno Fernandes has once again found himself at the centre of a Saudi transfer storm, with reports claiming Al-Ittihad have opened ‘positive’ talks over a sensational swoop for the Manchester United skipper.
The Portuguese playmaker, who only weeks ago batted away a jaw-dropping £200million approach from Al-Hilal, is understood to have held secret discussions with Al-Ittihad chiefs as the Pro League ramps up its pursuit of Europe’s biggest names.
According to The Sun, representatives of Fernandes met with Saudi officials to explore the possibility of a move. The talks are said to have gone well, though United’s talisman is demanding an eye-watering package believed to be around £33m per year before he even considers leaving Old Trafford.
Al-Ittihad, already boasting global stars Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, are desperate to add Fernandes to their ranks in a statement signing that would send shockwaves across world football. Their interest comes amid another Saudi summer spree, with the likes of Theo Hernandez, Darwin Núñez, João Félix and Kingsley Coman all tempted eastwards in blockbuster deals.
Yet Fernandes has previously been adamant his heart lies in Europe. Back in June, the midfielder revealed that both Al-Hilal and United’s new boss Rúben Amorim had made their positions clear. “It would have been an easy move,” he admitted, citing close friends Rúben Neves and João Cancelo in Riyadh. “But I want to stay at the highest level, play in big competitions, because I still feel capable. United didn’t want to sell me they don’t need the money.”
For United, the prospect of losing their captain just as Amorim looks to reshape the squad would be a massive blow. Fernandes was central to a spirited display in the season opener against Arsenal, even in a narrow 1-0 defeat that left Old Trafford brimming with rare optimism.
Whether Saudi riches can shift his stance remains to be seen but one thing’s certain: Fernandes is now firmly on the radar, and Al-Ittihad won’t give up without a fight.
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