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Saudi giants could return for Manchester United ace in 2026; January exit not ruled out

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 13, 2025 8:11 AM ET

Saudi Clubs could return for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes in 2026

Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United in January 2020 and quickly became the most important player in the midfield. His creativity and goal-scoring ability gave the team a new lease of life in many difficult matches. Fernandes has always been one of the best players in the league in creating goal-scoring chances, and his assists add attacking sharpness to the team.

At times, the team’s performance was lacklustre, but the Portuguese made a difference with his quality and relentless work ethic. He not only took on the responsibility of captaincy on the field but also won many individual awards. In May, there were reports that Manchester United are demanding at least £80 million for him, and this further strengthens his importance.

Discussion related to the Saudi Pro League:

Now the news is again in the news that Fernandes’ departure from Manchester United is possible in January. Journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed through TBR Football that the Saudi Pro League clubs are still trying to bring the 30-year-old. In the summer, the Pro League thought Bruno Fernandes would agree to a transfer.

However, the captain decided to stay with the team for the first full season of new manager Ruben Amorim. However, the situation is not completely stable, and the story could take an even more interesting turn as the new year approaches. Pro League clubs are willing to spend a huge amount of money on him. It makes the matter even more serious.

What should Manchester United do?

We think the club is facing a big question. The United captain is one of the most reliable players on the squad. There will be shortcomings if United lose him mid-season. According to ESPN, Stewart Robson has also said that United’s tactics will not work without Fernandes. Therefore, the club should not make any hasty decisions. Selling the captain in January would be an extremely dangerous move, as the stability of the team would be broken mid-season, and it would be difficult to find the right replacement.

However, it is also true that Fernandes sometimes puts pressure on teammates. His frustration and body language have drawn criticism from legends such as Roy Keane and Gary Neville. Many believe his presence could impact the development of young talent such as Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim hasn’t played the 20-year-old due to the presence of Fernandes. It is pushing the English talent to the brink of a departure. So it’s important to make a long-term plan. The best time to sell Fernandes would be in the summer, so the club can move forward with a new strategy.

There is always an exception, though. If a bid of over £100 million comes in January, it would be foolish to turn it down. That amount could bring in several new players in midfield and attack, and speed up the club’s rebuilding process. Fernandes rejected a Saudi Pro League offer this summer and cited his reason for staying with United, but in the long term, the question remains whether his staying is right for the club’s future. The moment is extremely sensitive for United as this decision could determine the direction for years to come. If the Portuguese international stays, then we might look at the 20-year-old Mainoo leaving the club, which will jeopardise the club’s future.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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