Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes could depart Old Trafford for just £57 million next summer due to a secret release clause in his contract. The Portuguese captain, a long-term target for Saudi clubs, may consider his options if United’s struggles continue.
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes could leave Old Trafford next summer for a surprisingly modest fee, with reports in The Sun revealing a “secret release clause” in his contract that would allow clubs outside England to sign him for just £57 million (€65.6m / $75.9m).
A potential bargain for Europe’s elite
The clause, which becomes active at the end of the current season, would make Fernandes available for a fraction of his true market value. It’s a figure that is expected to attract significant interest from top European sides — and possibly reignite the Saudi Pro League’s pursuit of the Portuguese playmaker.
Saudi clubs made several approaches during the summer transfer window but were turned away, as both Fernandes and Ruben Amorim were keen for the 29-year-old to remain the cornerstone of United’s rebuild. Yet, with the team still struggling for consistency in the Premier League, Fernandes could soon be tempted to seek a new challenge.
For United, the situation poses a major dilemma. Losing their captain and most creative influence for such a reduced fee would represent a huge blow, particularly at a time when the club is still trying to stabilise its performances and re-establish a winning identity.
Fernandes’ loyalty — for now
Speaking last month while on international duty with Portugal, Fernandes reiterated his affection for United but admitted he could not guarantee his long-term future at the club.
I wanted to stay at Manchester United, and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all there is to it,” he told reporters. “I like to enjoy the moment, and the most important thing for me now is representing the national team. I still don’t know if I’ll play, let alone if I’ll leave Manchester United in a year.
It was a telling comment from a player who has always worn his emotions on his sleeve. While Fernandes rejected a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia in 2024, sources close to the player suggest he would be open to a transfer to a Champions League-contending side if United fail to qualify for Europe this term.
United’s make-or-break season
Fernandes remains an integral part of Amorim’s project — but even he hasn’t been immune to criticism this season. The skipper has been asked to operate deeper in midfield to accommodate new attacking signings, which has affected his goal and assist tally.
Despite that, United have recently shown signs of improvement, winning back-to-back Premier League games for the first time under Amorim — a 2-0 home victory over Sunderland, followed by a spirited 2-1 win at Anfield. Those results have lifted the Red Devils to ninth, just three points behind second-placed Manchester City.
Still, the underlying uncertainty around Fernandes’ future adds another layer of pressure to Amorim’s job. Replacing a player of his influence — and leadership — would be both financially and tactically complex, especially given United’s recent struggles in recruitment.
Brighton test looms
United now face Brighton at Old Trafford, a side that has become something of a bogey team in recent seasons. The Seagulls have beaten United in six of their last seven league meetings and will be aiming to leapfrog them in the table.
For Fernandes, the focus will remain on leading his team through a crucial stretch of fixtures — but with his £57m release clause set to activate next summer, his future could become one of the defining transfer stories of 2026.
