Man United start talks to hand Bruno Fernandes a new deal | OneFootball

Manchester United have opened talks to hand Bruno Fernandes a new deal despite a £57 million release clause in his contract, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Fernandes just equalled the Premier League record for the most assists (21) in a season, capping off a brilliant season for the Man United playmaker.

The 31-year-old’s contract expires next year, but the Red Devils want to keep him at Old Trafford beyond.

Fernandes has caught the eye of Saudi Pro League and European clubs, but initial discussions have focused on a new deal as Man Utd absolutely want him to stay.

The Portuguese international (87 caps) played a key role in the club’s resurgence under Michael Carrick, spearheading the return to the UEFA Champions League.

After delivering nine goals and creating 33 big chances in 35 Premier League appearances, he rightly deserves to be rewarded.

He was voted the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year for a fifth season, the Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association and was an undisputable driving force.

However, Manchester United cannot simply rely on Fernandes to drag them through another season.

The Red Devils need to build a midfield structure that allows him to thrive consistently, rather than spending large parts of matches compensating for deficiencies behind him.

Casemiro is leaving, while Kobbie Mainoo is at his best when he has freedom to progress play rather than constantly firefighting defensively.

That is why United must prioritise signing a genuine holding midfielder this summer.

Someone athletic, positionally disciplined and capable of shielding the defence would instantly improve the balance of the side and maximise Fernandes’ creative output.

If United do move for Elliot Anderson, it should not be viewed as the solution to their midfield issues.

Anderson is far more likely to compete with Mainoo for a place than partner him in a double pivot.

The ideal scenario is signing both Anderson and a specialist defensive midfielder.

Fernandes has shown again that he remains one of Europe’s elite creators. Now, United must finally construct a midfield around him that actually makes sense.