Bruno Fernandes linked again with Saudi Pro League move as United’s struggles continue

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is once again being linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. According to a report in The Sun, Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad are the latest team trying to sign him after earlier interest from Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr.

Fernandes had reportedly rejected a move to the Middle Eastern country before, when his agent held talks with Al-Hilal over a £100 million deal during the FIFA Club World Cup. Al-Nassr also tried to sign him this month but failed. Fernandes’ Portugal teammate Cristiano Ronaldo plays for the same club.

Fernandes demands £33 million?

Now, it has emerged that Al-Ittihad met Fernandes’ representatives during the closing stages of the ongoing summer transfer window, with talks being described as positive. They are looking to bring the 30-year-old midfielder to Saudi Arabia to join the likes of Karim Benzema, Moussa Diaby, and N’Golo Kante.

“Sources have told SunSport Fernandes has asked the Saudi Pro League outfit for a contract worth a total of £33 million per year,” the report stated.

Fernandes has earlier said that he wants to stay at Manchester United but would respect the club’s decision if they decide to sell him. It is still not clear if United will agree to let their captain leave, but the Saudi Pro League clubs are apparently trying their best to bring him in.

“I have always been honest. I’ve always said I will be here until the club says to me that it’s time to go. I’m eager to do more, to be able to bring the club the great days. In the day that the club thinks that I’m too much or it’s time to part ways, football is like this, you never know it,” Fernandes said.

“But I’ve always said it and I keep my word in the same way. If the club thinks it’s time to part ways, because they’d want to do some cashing in or whatever, it’s what it is, and football sometimes is like this,” he added.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking for a midfielder to pair with Fernandes and are reportedly eyeing Chelsea youngster Andrey Santos. The 21-year-old played 32 games and contributed 13 goals and assists last season. But, Chelsea may not be ready to sell him off yet.