For several transfer windows now, there have been endless rumors about the future of Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes. He’s been one of the team’s best and most consistent players since joining in 2019, but change might be coming soon.
As Bruno approaches the later stages of his career — he’ll be 32 years old next season — the Manchester United board may start thinking about the bigger picture. Could selling their star midfielder actually help the club move forward in the long run? It sounds shocking, but when you look at the details, it might make sense.
A Big Offer From Saudi Arabia
According to reports, Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr — where Cristiano Ronaldo currently plays — are very interested in bringing Bruno Fernandes to the Saudi Pro League. The idea of reuniting the Portuguese teammates is exciting for fans in Saudi Arabia.
What’s more, Al Nassr is reportedly ready to pay around £100 million for the transfer. That’s a huge amount of money for a player who is entering his thirties. The deal might also include two friendly matches between Al Nassr and Manchester United, which would bring even more money to United’s bank account.
In today’s soccer world, finances matter just as much as trophies. Clubs must think not only about winning on the field but also about managing wages, sponsorships, and transfers off it.
United’s Financial Struggles Without Europe
Manchester United has had a tough time financially this season because they didn’t qualify for any European competition — not even the Europa League or Conference League. That means no big match nights at Old Trafford, fewer TV rights payments, and a big drop in income.
For a club used to being one of Europe’s richest, this is a serious problem. It even affected the summer transfer window, where new manager Rúben Amorim reportedly couldn’t get all the players he wanted.
Bruno’s current contract runs until 2027, and he earns about £300,000 per week, which makes him one of United’s top earners, just behind Casemiro. If United sold Bruno now, they’d remove a huge salary burden and gain funds to rebuild the squad.
Bruno’s Legacy at Manchester United
It’s impossible to deny how important Bruno Fernandes has been for Manchester United. Since joining from Sporting CP in January 2019, he has:
Scored 100 goals
Provided 83 assists
Played 298 games for the club
That’s an incredible record for a midfielder, especially when you remember that United have struggled for consistency during most of his time there.
Bruno’s playing style — full of energy, creativity, and risk-taking — has been a major reason why United stayed competitive. He’s not just about goals and assists, though. He’s also been a leader on and off the pitch. Even when emotions run high, he’s shown passion and commitment.
However, soccer is a business as well as a sport. And while his performances have been strong, United must think about the future. They might not want to offer another long-term, high-paying contract to a player who will be nearly 33 when his current deal ends.
The Rise of the Saudi Pro League
In the last few years, Saudi Arabia has been attracting some of the world’s biggest stars. Players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Riyad Mahrez, and Roberto Firmino have all made the move.
For many, the Saudi Pro League offers huge salaries and the chance to play in a new, fast-growing environment. If Bruno were to move there, it would likely be his final big contract — and one that could secure his financial future.
For Manchester United, getting £100 million for a player in his thirties would be a great deal. That money could go toward signing younger talents, improving the stadium, or strengthening other areas of the squad.
Who Could Leave Next?
Bruno might not be the only major name leaving Old Trafford soon.
Kobbie Mainoo
The talented young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly unhappy with his situation. As one of England’s brightest young stars, he wants to play regularly — especially with the 2026 World Cup coming up. If United can’t guarantee him enough minutes, he might push for a move in January.
Joshua Zirkzee
Then there’s Joshua Zirkzee, who joined United in 2024. Despite his potential, he has struggled to make an impact — scoring only 7 goals and 2 assists in 53 appearances. Seeing his old teammate Rasmus Højlund succeed at Napoli has probably made him question his own future.
If he wants to be part of the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, he’ll need more playing time. A move away might help him get that.
Marcus Rashford and Antony
Even Marcus Rashford and Antony, both former United stars, are reportedly enjoying success in La Liga. Their progress abroad shows that sometimes, leaving Old Trafford can be the right choice for a player’s career.
Maguire’s Determination to Stay
One player who definitely wants to stay is Harry Maguire. After struggling under Erik ten Hag, Maguire has rediscovered his form under Rúben Amorim. His strong mentality and fighting spirit have made him an important figure again.
However, if he wants to remain at the club, Maguire may have to accept a significant pay cut. United’s wage bill is too high, and the club must balance things if they want to move forward sustainably.
The Next 12 Months Are Crucial
The next year could be one of the most important in Manchester United’s modern history. Big names like Bruno, Mainoo, and Zirkzee might leave, while others could arrive to start a new era.
Fans might not like the idea of losing their captain, but sometimes short-term pain leads to long-term gain. Selling Bruno Fernandes could open the door for new talent, more balance in wages, and a refreshed playing style.
Soccer Fact Corner
The average career length of a top midfielder is around 13–15 years. After age 31, most players begin to lose some physical sharpness.
Manchester United have 20 league titles, more than any other English club.
The last time United won the Premier League was in 2013, under Sir Alex Ferguson.
The Saudi Pro League has increased its total player value by over 600% since 2022.
Final Thoughts
Selling Bruno Fernandes might seem unthinkable to many Manchester United fans. He’s been the heart and soul of the team for years. But soccer is about timing, planning, and evolution.
If United can secure £100 million from Al Nassr, reduce their wage expenses, and invest smartly in new players, it could mark the beginning of a fresh, more sustainable chapter for the club.
As tough as it sounds, the sale of Bruno Fernandes might be exactly what Manchester United need to rebuild and rise again — both on the pitch and off it.
