Manchester United have put contract discussions with Bruno Fernandes on hold, but club officials have received assurances that the midfielder will remain at Old Trafford for the time being.
Fernandes, who is approaching the final 12 months of his £250,000-a-week deal with an option for a further year, is expected to begin talks on an enhanced contract before the close of 2026. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made new signings the priority, delaying Fernandes' future negotiations.
Before departing for the World Cup with Portugal, Fernandes held discussions with senior figures at United and made clear he had no intention of leaving. The club's return to the Champions League next season and guarantees of a substantial squad bolstering were key factors in his decision.
United are close to completing a £35m deal for Atalanta's Ederson and have additional midfield targets on their shortlist. Michael Carrick is also seeking a new centre-back and left winger.
Fernandes, who claimed multiple individual honours this term, remains vital to Carrick's side. His £55m release clause is considered unlikely to be triggered given his age (turning 32 in September) and wage demands, leaving United confident of retaining him.
Keeping Fernandes is seen as a major boost to United's ambitions of mounting a Premier League title challenge next season.
