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6 months ago
16 Al Nassr are reportedly one of the Saudi Pro League clubs interested in signing Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.
According to ESPN, Al Nassr want to bolster their squad with a centre-back and an attacking midfielder, as well as a backup goalkeeper and a young striker. A source has told Rob Dawson that the Saudi Pro League club believe Fernandes would be a good fit in midfield, but they accept striking a deal would be a difficult task.
Fernandes is 29 and still has years left playing at the very top. If he does leave United his summer, which has been speculated by multiple outlets, then there will be bigger European clubs in the mix. That way he can compete in the Champions League rather than the Saudi Pro League.
It is believed Fernandes, who is under contract at United until at least 2026, has sought assurances from United about their ambitions for the future following a disappointing campaign. How Wayne Rooney of him!
Anyhow, when you consider Fernandes’ age, he is going to want success next season. He doesn’t have time to wait around for years – but, as club captain, perhaps he should.
United won’t be playing in the Champions League next season and The Independent believe this year’s semi-finalists Bayern Munich are considering a move for the Portugal international.
A source has told ESPN that Fernandes is not trying to force his way out, but at 29, he is keen to be successful as possible during the final years of his career.
The Reds are planning a clear-out this summer, after Raphael Varane announced on Tuesday that he will be leaving at the end of the season. Anthony Martial’s contract is set to expire too.
There’s also players like Christian Eriksen, with one year left to run on his deal, that are expected to leave. Casemiro is the second-highest earner at the club and they need to bring the wage bill down.
Stretty News verdict
I would be shocked if Fernandes ended up in the Middle East next season. What a waste of talent that would be… and if he really wants to be successful in his final years, what is the point of going to Saudi Arabia to play in a league people don’t care enough about to watch regularly.
If Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t encourage people to watch it, we know already that Fernandes will hardly make a difference.
Fernandes may like the idea of linking up with Ronaldo at Al Nassr.
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