Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has opened up about his future, addressing ongoing transfer rumors and confirming a contract clause that could pave the way for a move abroad. While United would only consider selling their talisman under a specific condition, Fernandes himself has spoken candidly about his long-term ambitions — including a heartfelt desire to one day return to Sporting Lisbon.
Manchester United’s Stance: One Condition for Fernandes’ Exit
Reports suggest that Manchester United would only sanction Bruno Fernandes’ departure if a unique release clause is triggered. According to BBC Sport, the Portuguese midfielder’s current deal — which runs until 2027 with an option for an extra year — includes a clause that allows him to join a non-English club for £56.68 million (€65 million), provided it’s activated early enough.
This condition means that while Premier League rivals would need to negotiate directly with United, major European clubs could have a more defined pathway if they decide to pursue Fernandes in the future.
No Desire for Saudi Switch Despite Lucrative Offers
Fernandes was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia during the summer transfer window, with Al-Hilal reportedly offering around £100 million to lure him away from Old Trafford. Despite the financial appeal, the 30-year-old playmaker opted to stay, reaffirming his commitment to Manchester United.
Sources close to the player told BBC Sport that Fernandes remains uninterested in a Saudi move, even next summer. Instead, he’s focused on continuing his journey in Europe, where several top clubs outside England are keeping tabs on his situation.
Fernandes’ Loyalty and His Sporting Lisbon Dream
Speaking about his career goals, Fernandes admitted that returning to his boyhood club, Sporting Lisbon, is something he hopes to do before retiring. However, for now, his eyes remain firmly set on unfinished business in Manchester.
“If I had the chance to play again in Portugal, I would always choose Sporting first,” Fernandes said. “But we feel at home here too. My dream is to win the Premier League and Champions League with Manchester United — I haven’t achieved that yet.”
He also revealed that his wife played a decisive role in rejecting the Al-Hilal offer, reminding him that his ambitions at United remain incomplete.
Focus on United — Talks Deferred Until After the World Cup
Fernandes made it clear that any discussions regarding his future will only take place after the next World Cup. “I feel good here and still want to achieve my dreams,” he said. “If the club made an agreement about my future, it wasn’t with me. My agent knows I don’t want to talk about transfers until after the World Cup.”
With Fernandes still at the heart of Erik ten Hag’s plans, Manchester United fans will be hoping their captain’s ambitions align with the club’s rebuilding vision — at least for a little while longer.
