According to a new report, Al-Hilal believe they are close to a deal to sign Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United.
The Saudi Arabian club held talks with Fernandes’ representatives earlier this week about a summer transfer, with the aim of finalising a deal before the Club World Cup later this month.
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However, Bruno Fernandes was initially reluctant to consider the offer before Manchester United expressed a desire to sell him, which may now have happened according to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs.
In the latest developments, Jacobs claims that Fernandes is now discussing the matter with his family, with personal choice believed to play a bigger role than the sporting aspects.
Al-Hilal has yet to make a formal offer to United, but believes that a transfer will be approved if Fernandes asks to leave – although he does not want to force through a transfer unless the club actively wants to sell.
United insist they will not sell their club captain, but after losing their Champions League spot next season, they could be tempted by the reported transfer fee of over €80 million.
Amorim: “We can find other ways to raise money”
Fernandes was United’s only real star player last season, with more minutes than any other pitcher and involved in over 40% of the team’s Premier League goals.
Coach Ruben Amorim has been clear that he does not want to lose his captain, telling reporters during the club’s Asia tour that “we can find other ways to raise money” when asked about the situation.
When asked if the win over Hong Kong could be Fernandes’ last game for United, Amorim replied:
“I don’t think so. I don’t know for sure, no one does, but I don’t think so. I think he sees that we’re taking action to change things, and that’s all he’s asking for.”
“I think he wants to stay. He says no to many things, but it shows that he wants to win. He’s very young, very good, and he should be playing in the best league in the world.”
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