Manchester United have opened contract talks with Bruno Fernandes and insist he is not for sale at any price amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. Standard Sport understands that United are determined to keep hold of their influential captain this summer and have held preliminary talks over a new deal.
Contract situation
Fernandes’ current contract at Old Trafford expires next summer, but United, who have the option to extend it by a further 12 months, are relaxed about the situation and already in the process of negotiating fresh terms. The Portuguese international enjoyed a stellar campaign last season as United qualified for the Champions League, breaking the single season assist record in the Premier League.
Fernandes is viewed as a critical part of manager Michael Carrick’s plans. However, interest has begun to build in his services with clubs aware that he could leave on a free transfer next summer. There was previously a £57million release clause in Fernandes’ contract, but that expired this summer and United have now made their stance on the former Sporting midfielder clear.
Previous transfer interest
Fernandes had felt “hurt” last summer when United told him that they would not stand in his way if he decided to accept a sizeable offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
“From the club I felt it was, 'If you go, it's not so bad for us'. It hurts me a bit,” Fernandes told Canal 11, a channel owned by the Portuguese Football Federation.
He added: “More than hurting me, it makes me sad. I'm a player that no one can criticise. I'm always available, I always give my best.
"I could have left in this transfer window, I would have earned much more money.
"I would have won many trophies this season, but I decided not to go, not only for family reasons but because I genuinely love the club."
