Bruno Fernandes is a target for Al-Ittihad, according to Ben Jacobs. Fernandes has rejected moves to Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr this summer, but Al-Ittihad have now joined the pursuit. No formal offer has been made yet. United are not looking to sell Fernandes, but may look to Carlos Baleba as a replacement if he leaves.
Manchester United's captain, Bruno Fernandes, has emerged as a target for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, according to football journalist Ben Jacobs. This development adds another layer to the ongoing speculation surrounding the Portuguese international's future at Old Trafford. Fernandes, who previously turned down offers from Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr earlier in the summer, now finds himself on the radar of yet another ambitious Saudi club.
Al-Ittihad, known for their aggressive recruitment strategy, have reportedly engaged in discussions with Fernandes' representatives, expressing a strong admiration for the player's capabilities and leadership qualities. However, despite the interest, no formal offer has been submitted to Manchester United at this stage. The club's hierarchy is carefully considering their options as they weigh the potential benefits of adding Fernandes to their squad.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are in a somewhat ambivalent position. While they are not actively seeking to offload their captain, they are also pragmatic about the situation. The club recognizes Fernandes' importance to the team, but they are also aware that a player of his caliber will ultimately make his own decision about his future. Should Fernandes decide that a move to Al-Ittihad is in his best interest, United are unlikely to stand in his way, provided that their valuation is met.
The potential departure of Fernandes could prompt a strategic reshuffling of the squad. With the recent additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, two creative players capable of injecting dynamism into the team's attack, United may feel that they have sufficient cover in the attacking midfield positions. However, Fernandes' unique blend of creativity, work rate, and leadership would undoubtedly be missed, and finding a suitable replacement would be a top priority.
One name that has been linked with a move to Old Trafford is Brighton & Hove Albion's Carlos Baleba. The talented midfielder has impressed scouts with his performances in the Premier League, and he is seen as a potential long-term solution to United's midfield concerns. However, Brighton are likely to demand a significant fee for Baleba, with reports suggesting that they value him at around £120 million. Whether United are willing to meet that asking price remains to be seen.
The situation surrounding Fernandes' future is complex and multifaceted. Al-Ittihad's interest is genuine, but they have yet to make a formal offer. Manchester United are not actively looking to sell, but they are also realistic about the player's options. And Fernandes himself has a big decision to make about where he wants to spend the next chapter of his career. As the summer transfer window progresses, the speculation is likely to intensify, and fans of both Manchester United and Al-Ittihad will be watching closely to see how the story unfolds.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Bruno Fernandes. He must weigh the pros and cons of a move to Saudi Arabia against the opportunity to continue playing for one of the world's most prestigious clubs. The financial rewards on offer in the Saudi Pro League are undoubtedly attractive, but Fernandes must also consider the sporting implications of such a move. At 30 years old, he is still in the prime of his career, and he has the potential to achieve great things at Manchester United.
Whatever he decides, the next few weeks promise to be a defining moment in his career. The eyes of the footballing world will be on him as he contemplates his future and makes a decision that could have a significant impact on both Manchester United and Al-Ittihad.