Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has a specific release clause in his contract worth over £52.5 million, but it cannot be triggered by any other Premier League club, according to fresh reports.
Contract Details and Summer Turmoil
The revelation about the clause, which is only applicable to teams outside England, comes after the Portuguese midfielder made startling comments about his future. Fernandes recently disclosed that during the summer transfer window, certain figures within Manchester United's hierarchy were open to his departure following a substantial offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Despite the potential for a major salary increase, the 30-year-old chose to remain at Old Trafford. He cited family reasons, his affection for the club, and a crucial conversation with manager Ruben Amorim as key factors in his decision. However, he admitted feeling hurt by the club's perceived willingness to let him go.
"The club wanted me to go, I have that in my head," Fernandes told Canal 11. "I told the directors this, but I think they didn't have the courage to make that decision... from the club's side, I felt a bit like, 'if you leave, it's not so bad for us.'"
The Specifics of the Exit Clause
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has now provided clarity on the contractual situation. He confirmed the existence of a release clause in Fernandes' deal, valued at slightly over €60 million (approximately £52.5m). Crucially, this clause is designed to prevent a direct move to a domestic rival.
"The clause is not valid for Premier League clubs. It's only for clubs abroad," Romano stated. This stipulation means that any English team interested in Fernandes would have to negotiate a separate, likely higher, fee directly with Manchester United.
Romano added that while nothing is imminent, interest from Saudi Arabia could resurface in the summer, leaving the decision once again in the hands of the player and the club.
On-Field Importance and Immediate Focus
The news emerges just as Erik ten Hag's squad prepares for a crucial Premier League fixture against Aston Villa. A victory would see United draw level on points with Chelsea and Liverpool in the table.
Fernandes' value to the side remains immense. Since his £47 million move from Sporting CP in January 2020, he has made over 300 appearances. This season under Amorim, he has contributed five goals and seven assists in 17 games across all competitions, underlining his status as the team's creative heartbeat.
The revelation of this carefully structured clause offers some protection to United against losing their skipper to a direct competitor, but it keeps the door ajar for a major overseas bid when the transfer window reopens.
