Ronaldo threatens Man Utd transfer plans as Fernandes talks opened

Tom Weber

• Updated: 6 Jul 2024 14:13 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United have given Saudi clubs permission to speak to Bruno Fernandes, according to a report.

The Red Devils captain is facing an uncertain future despite repeatedly stating that he is happy at Man Utd and wants to continue there. Saudi interest in the Portugal star has been rampant for some time and it has only increased in recent days.

The 29-year-old's agent has been talking to big clubs around Europe and sounding out the market, but it increasingly looks as though Fernandes' future may lie in the Middle East.

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On Friday, a Saudi outlet reported that a Pro League club had launched a mega offer for the Man Utd superstar that has been described as 'difficult to refuse.' The bid must indeed have been very good as the Manchester giants have now given the Saudis permission to formally enter into talks with Fernandes.

Ronaldo wants Bruno

At least that is according to TEAMtalk, which reports that two Saudi giants are trying to secure the signature of Fernandes. One are 2023 champions Al-Ittihad, still mired in turmoil after a pitiful title defence, and the other are Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.

Indeed, Ronaldo will potentially be the deciding factor in this saga. Fernandes is said to be leaning towards Al-Nassr over Al-Ittihad due to the 'influence' of CR7,

The Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns both clubs, is 'optimistic' about being able to strike a deal for the midfielder, with first contacts with the player's camp having already taken place all the way back in late 2023.

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The Saudi Pro League is not expected to spend quite as profligately as it did last season, but several marquee signings are still planned, with Fernandes headlining the list of high-profile stars that are being targeted.

Man Utd teammate Casemiro is also being chased by the PIF. FootballTransfers understands that he is determined to fight for his place at Old Trafford and that Erik ten Hag is happy to keep him but that the club hierarchy could try to overrule the Dutchman.