Bruno Fernandes: Man United do a U-turn over new deal for Captain Fantastic | OneFootball

This summer is one that Manchester United are expected to use to reshape their midfield.

While United’s engine room has been decent, INEOS now have a perfect opportunity to make it world-class.

Casemiro has left as a free agent, and Manuel Ugarte is also tipped to follow him through the exit door. Their departures give the Red Devils the leverage to make a number of midfield signings.

A deal for Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson has already been struck, and there is talk of two further midfielders following the Samba star through the entry door.

Deals for other top targets such as Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali are anticipated to be struck, but INEOS have one other key piece of business for their midfield to attend to: handing Bruno Fernandes a new deal.

After the revolutionary season Fernandes had, carrying United back into Champions League football and breaking the Premier League assists record (21), he deserved to be rewarded handsomely.

The fact that the Premier League player of the season carries a £57 million release clause this summer, with top clubs capable of swaying him, should have been enough to trigger an immediate contract offer.

There have been suggestions of talks being initiated over that. Yet, just as fans were expecting some “breaking news” on that front, it appears a new deal may not materialise this summer, according to The Mirror.

Latest on Bruno Fernandes contract talks

The UK outlet reports that “Manchester United have shelved contract talks with Bruno Fernandes.”

According to the report, “United chiefs remain relaxed about the situation – and will open negotiations with the Portuguese midfielder before the end of 2026 about a new and improved deal.”

For now, INEOS are prioritising bringing in reinforcements.

Fernandes’ new deal still important

Fernandes’ love for United cannot be questioned. He will surely commit his future to the club, given his ambition to deliver Premier League glory to Old Trafford.

That said, with Fernandes entering the final year of his deal, though the club hold an option to extend by a further year, it is easy to overstate how important it remains to secure his long-term future.

Featured image by Michael Regan/Getty Images

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