Bruno Fernandes looks set to stay at Manchester United, leaving Gary Neville undecided over the future of Ruben Amorim's most important player following a torrid season
Manchester United can’t lose amid the Bruno Fernandes transfer saga, according to Gary Neville. The Portuguese playmaker’s future has been up in the air since he conceded after the Europa League final defeat to Spurs that he could be offloaded this summer, despite being United's standout player during an abject campaign.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have been pushing to sign Fernandes ahead of the Club World Cup. The playmaker was reportedly seriously considering accepting a £700,000 per week deal. Al-Hilal were also said to be prepared to pay up to £100million for the 30-year-old, cash that could have been ploughed into the much-needed revamp of the squad.
However, according to fresh reports, Fernandes has rejected Al-Hilal’s interest and looks set to remain at Old Trafford, having consulted with his family.
Speaking on the It’s Called Soccer show ahead of the latest development, Neville insisted the reported £100million fee would have been a good deal for United as they strive to remain within PSR restrictions. However, the Sky Sports pundit said his former club also need a player of Fernandes’ quality and leadership.
Neville said: “I’m torn on this one because if the £100million fee is right and United get that, I don’t think it’s a bad fee. In fact, I think it’s a great fee for someone at that age. United have had great years out of him. But I also think, if he stays, [he’s saying] ‘No, I want fight this out and turn it around’. I also think that’s a great thing as well.
“So I’m 50-50 in what I think about it. The £100million United need to rebuild the squad. On the other hand, they need players with personality and quality, and they haven’t got that many. In fact, he’s the only one they’ve got. For me, it's a no-lose situation.”
Fernandes captained United as they rounded off their post-season trip to Asia with a 3-1 friendly win against Hong Kong. Asked whether that might have been Fernandes’ last appearance for the club, Amorim said: “I don’t think so.
“I don’t know for sure, nobody knows, but I don’t think so. I think he is seeing us taking some actions to change all the things and I think that is all that he asked. I think he wants to stay.
“He’s saying no to a lot of things, but it shows that he wants to win and I think he’s really young, he’s really good. He needs to be in the best league in the world."
A fee of £100m would help fund this summer’s much-needed rebuild as United navigate PSR. Pushed on whether United could turn down such a figure, Amorim said: “Yes, yes. We can find another way to earn money.”