Manchester United Want Bruno Fernandes to Stay, But the New Contract Is About More Than Money

Manchester United are making one thing clear as the transfer window enters its final weeks: Bruno Fernandes is not for sale.

The club has opened talks with its captain over a new contract, with negotiations covering the length of the deal, his salary and the €65 million release clause attached to his current agreement. United have no plans to accept offers for the midfielder, despite interest from Galatasaray.

The timing is important because Fernandes is entering the final year of his current contract, although United have an option to extend it for another season. His previous foreign-club release clause has also expired, giving United much greater control over his future.

United Are Sending a Different Message This Time

There is an interesting change from last summer. When Al Hilal showed serious interest in Fernandes in 2025, United allowed the Portuguese midfielder to consider the possibility of leaving. Fernandes later admitted that the situation hurt him because he felt the club was prepared to let him go.

This time, the message is completely different. United are actively trying to secure his future rather than waiting for another club to make an offer. That suggests the club now sees Fernandes as a central part of Michael Carrick’s rebuilding project.

And there is a strong football reason for that. Fernandes had an outstanding season, breaking the Premier League record for assists with 21 and being named the league’s Player of the Season.

Galatasaray Can Offer More Money, But United Have the Advantage

Galatasaray’s interest is serious. Reports suggest the Turkish club could offer Fernandes a contract worth around £350,000 per week, potentially more than double his current earnings.

That gives the midfielder a major financial decision to make. But Fernandes has indicated that he wants to stay at Old Trafford, and United’s position is that they will not sell him.

For United, removing the release clause from the equation could be just as important as increasing Fernandes’ salary. It would mean that even if another club arrives with a huge offer next summer, United would have much more control over the decision.

The Bigger Problem Is Still the Left-Back Position

While the Fernandes negotiations continue, United are also trying to complete their squad before the August 31 deadline.

The club’s priority is reportedly a new left-back. Myles Lewis-Skelly remains an option, while Jorge Salinas is viewed as a cheaper alternative. United are also interested in Lewis Hall but could wait until next summer for him.

That shows the different approach Carrick and United’s recruitment team are taking. They have already added Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but Carrick wants one or two more additions while avoiding spending simply for the sake of it. United are returning to the Champions League and want to strengthen without undoing the progress made last season.

Keeping Fernandes may ultimately be United’s most important piece of business this summer. The new signings can improve the squad, but Fernandes remains the player around whom Carrick’s team can be built.