Bruno Fernandes set to stay at Manchester United amid January transfer window links

According to The Sun, Fernandes has no plans to depart Manchester United during the January transfer window, despite reported interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. Speculation over his future intensified earlier this month following the sacking of his compatriot Ruben Amorim, with suggestions that Fernandes could consider an exit.

In December, Fernandes addressed the rumours in an interview, admitting he was aware the club could be open to selling him. The 31-year-old said: “From the club’s side, it felt a bit like, ‘if you leave, it’s not so bad for us.’ It hurts me a bit. More than hurting, it makes me sad because I’m a player who has nothing to criticise. I’m always available, I always play, good or bad. I give my all. But it gets to a point where, for them, money is more important than anything.”

Reports previously claimed that Al Hilal were prepared to offer around €100 million for Fernandes, but no deal materialised. Similar rumours have resurfaced this month, yet Fernandes is again understood to have ruled out a move. Any decision on his long-term future is expected to be made after the 2026 World Cup, which he is set to attend barring any surprises.

Fernandes extended his contract with Manchester United in 2024, with the deal now running until June 2027 and including an option for a further year. By the end of the 2026 World Cup, he would have around 11 months remaining on his contract, a situation that could potentially reduce his transfer value compared to previous windows.

Despite the speculation, Fernandes remains one of United’s most important players. Since joining the club in 2020, he has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders. Under new head coach Michael Carrick, Fernandes has returned to his preferred number 10 role, operating behind the striker.

Manchester United are still expected to pursue midfield reinforcements in the summer. Last year, they attempted to sign Brighton’s Carlos Baleba for around €100 million, but the deal collapsed. United are now believed to be considering revisiting that move, while also monitoring alternatives such as Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.

United return to Premier League action on Friday, 17 January, when they face Manchester City in the Manchester derby at 7:30 PM (GMT+7).