Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim wants to keep captain Bruno Fernandes at the club amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
Fernandes’ contract runs to 2027 but the Portugal playmaker has been the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, who are thought to be willing to offer a huge salary for the 30-year-old to move before next month’s Club World Cup.
Amorim knows he must sell players in order to fund an extensive summer squad rebuilding exercise and that situation will be even more acute if United fail to win the Europa League and secure qualification for next season’s Champions League.
“Our idea didn’t change”, he said. “We want to keep the best players – and Bruno is clearly one of the top players in the world. We want Bruno here”.
Fernandes has scored 19 goals and claimed 18 assists so far this season.
“It is easy to understand [his importance] – not just because of the numbers but the way he plays and the importance he has during his five years here”, Amorim added.
“It’s normal a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno. He is a leader and he’s the captain, so he’s really important. He is a top player, we need top players”.
United will be expected to reach a Europa League final against either Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt after their 3-0 semi-final first-leg win over Athletic Bilbao
