Manchester United have put contract negotiations with Bruno Fernandes on hold, with club officials confident he will stay at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future. The decision, reportedly backed by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, prioritises new signings over extending the midfielder's current deal.
Fernandes is entering the final year of his £250,000-a-week contract, which includes an option to extend by a further 12 months. United chiefs are untroubled by the situation and plan to open discussions on improved terms before the end of 2026.
Before joining Portugal's squad for the World Cup in North America, Fernandes held talks with senior United figures and made clear he has no intention of leaving, according to reports. His commitment is contingent on the club significantly strengthening the squad this summer.
United are close to finalising a £35m deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson and have other midfield targets on their shortlist. Manager Michael Carrick also seeks a new centre-back and left winger. Fernandes, who turns 32 in September, has a £55m release clause, but United believe no club will trigger it given his age and wage demands.
Retaining Fernandes, a standout performer who collected numerous individual accolades last season, is seen as a major boost for United's Premier League title ambitions. The club has secured Champions League football for next season.
