Al Hilal confident of landing Man Utd star after key talks | OneFootball

Fernandes Edges Closer to Al Hilal as Man Utd Face Pivotal Summer Decisions

Manchester United may be preparing for one of the most significant departures of their modern era. Bruno Fernandes, the club captain and creative heartbeat, is edging closer to a lucrative switch to Al Hilal after what have been described as “a week of positive meetings”.

Photo: IMAGO

While no formal bid has yet been submitted to Man Utd, confidence is growing within the Saudi Pro League club that an agreement is nearing. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, “Al-Hilal now believe an agreement with Bruno Fernandes is close after a week of positive meetings. Fernandes is currently deliberating with his family.”

Al Hilal are reportedly prepared to offer a package in excess of £100 million, accompanied by a substantial wage proposal described as a “crazy salary”.

Family Talks May Shape Final Decision

A decisive factor in Fernandes’ thinking will be family stability, rather than purely sporting ambition. The midfielder is considering whether a move to Saudi Arabia aligns with his family’s lifestyle and long-term plans.

Hilal are said to want a definitive answer by Friday. Despite the growing optimism from the Saudi side, Manchester United maintain their public stance that Fernandes is not for sale. However, a scenario is emerging where a transfer could be sanctioned if the player formally requests to leave.

Jacobs added that “#MUFC still insist they don’t want to sell their captain,” but the finances involved may prove difficult to ignore in a summer where squad restructuring is paramount.

New Forward Remains Priority for Amorim

The potential departure of Fernandes may directly impact United’s ability to strengthen in key areas. Matheus Cunha has been announced, but a new striker remains high on the list. United had pursued Liam Delap, who was available for £30 million due to a release clause, but the Ipswich striker has opted to join Chelsea, with a medical already underway.

Photo: IMAGO

Attention has shifted to Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres. Both players are valued in excess of £50 million, making Fernandes’ possible exit a potential financial enabler for further acquisitions.

Photo: IMAGO

Fernandes’ Influence Hard to Replace

Fernandes delivered 19 goals and 20 assists across all competitions last season – a talismanic return by any metric. Losing him at this juncture would represent a major risk for manager Ruben Amorim, both in terms of performance and leadership.

There is no question that Fernandes has been among the few consistent performers for United in recent years. Whether a suitable replacement can be found this summer, particularly under financial pressure, remains unclear.

If Al Hilal’s belief that they are “close” to sealing a deal proves accurate, Manchester United may soon face a difficult choice between sentiment and strategy.