Man Utd SHELVE Bruno Fernandes contract talks after private talks with bosses

EXCLUSIVE: Bruno Fernandes is coming off his best season at Manchester United, with speculation over his long-term future and a new contract rearing its head again

Manchester United have shelved contract talks with Bruno Fernandes.

Club bosses have been assured Fernandes will remain at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future. United chiefs remain relaxed about the situation - and will open negotiations with the Portuguese midfielder before the end of 2026 about a new and improved deal.

Fernandes is about to enter the final year of his current £250,000-a-week contract, but has an option to extend it by 12 months.

It’s understood co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has now prioritised making new signings instead - and has put the future of Fernandes on the back burner.

Fernandes has travelled to North America with the Portugal squad ahead of the World Cup. But before heading to the tournament, he spoke to senior figures at United and made it clear he had no desire to leave.

United have secured a return to the Champions League next season.

While another factor in Fernandes staying put was club assurances the squad would be significantly strengthened this summer. United are close to completing a £35m deal with Atalanta for Ederson - and have other midfield targets on their wanted list.

Michael Carrick is also keen to sign a new centre back and left winger. Fernandes has been a revelation for United in recent seasons.

He won numerous individual awards this time round and remains crucial to the team’s future under Carrick.

Fernandes has a release clause of £55m, but considering he will be 32 in September and would command huge wages, United remain confident no club would be willing to meet it.

Keeping Fernandes will be a huge boost to United, who have ambitions to challenge for the Premier League title next season.