Manchester United have reportedly placed a price tag on Bruno Fernandes, with a potential January departure aimed at financing two key signings.
The 31-year-old Portugal international remains central to United’s campaign, registering four goals and six assists in 15 Premier League appearances this season, including a brace in the 4-1 victory over Wolves on December 8.
Despite his importance to Ruben Amorim’s plans, Fernandes could leave Old Trafford next month, with funds expected to be used to bolster the midfield.
Fernandes, contracted until 2027, was a summer target for Saudi Pro League clubs but reportedly turned down offers from Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad to remain at Manchester United. While BBC Sport reported in October that Fernandes “has no interest in moving to Saudi Arabia,” Caught Offside claims further bids from the Middle East are anticipated, with United valuing him at around £70 million.
Fernandes Could Fund Two Key January Signings for Manchester United
A sale at that figure would recoup the £55 million United spent on Fernandes when signing him from Sporting CP in 2020.
The proceeds could then be directed toward acquiring Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba as early as the January window. The Telegraph notes that Forest are demanding at least £100 million for Anderson, making a mid-season transfer unlikely, while Baleba could command a similar fee.
Additionally, ESPN reports suggest United are open to offers for fringe players such as Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, Tyrell Malacia, and Joshua Zirkzee, as part of a push to bring in two central midfielders. Among the club’s targets, only Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller appears both affordable and available for January.
On the topic of a potential exit, Fernandes recently told BBC Sport that he is settled at Manchester United and focused on achieving his goals with the club:
“I feel good at United and want to achieve my dreams here. I’ve seen talk about agreements for next season, but nothing has been made with me. My agent knows how I operate, and any discussions will happen after the World Cup. Until then, I won’t speak to anyone.”
