Man United make their stance clear to midfielder Bruno Fernandes | OneFootball

Manchester United are set to go through a summer of rebuild as INEOS plan to invest more money to sign new players. But before the INEOS hierarchy can even think about bringing fresh faces to Old Trafford, they have a massive internal fire to put out.

According to The Sun, the Red Devils have officially drawn a line in the sand regarding their 31-year-old talisman, Bruno Fernandes.

Club executives have firmly stressed to the Portuguese maestro that they do not want him to leave under any circumstances this summer.

Bruno Fernandes told he is NOT for sale

United’s desperation to keep their captain makes total sense.

Despite the chaotic turbulence at Old Trafford this season, including the controversial sacking of head coach Ruben Amorim, Fernandes has been completely unplayable.

Operating back in his favoured number 10 role, he’s put up ridiculous, player-of-the-season numbers, notching an incredible 18 assists in the Premier League alone.

Unsurprisingly, that kind of elite form has him firmly in the conversation for the PFA Player of the Year award.

However, keeping him isn’t as simple as just saying “no” to suitors.

It recently came to light that Fernandes’ contract contains a massive vulnerability: a release clause in the region of £56.5m to £57m that can only be triggered by non-Premier League clubs.

Man United feel Champions League qualification is crucial

Fernandes genuinely loves the club. He recently admitted in an interview that he and his kids feel completely “at home in Manchester”.

His current deal theoretically runs until the summer of 2027, and the club holds an option to extend it until 2028.

But loyalty only goes so far for a player eager to test himself in the Champions League in his twilight years.

While he’s open to signing an extension and committing his future, he wants undeniable proof that the club shares his ambition in the upcoming transfer window.

The Red Devils are favourites to qualify for the Champions League next season and Man United feel that it would be enough to convice Fernandes to stay.