Amorim’s position on Bruno Fernandes’ departure unveiled as Real Madrid prepares a massive offer to lure the Man Utd star.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly expressed his stance to the club’s board regarding the potential sale of Bruno Fernandes, amid reports that Real Madrid is preparing a record-breaking bid to sign the Portuguese playmaker. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe faces a tough decision that could define his leadership.
Fernandes stands out at Old Trafford as one of the few high-profile signings who have truly lived up to expectations. With 177 goal contributions—95 goals and 82 assists—across 277 matches, he has maintained an impressive rate of one goal or assist every 1.56 games, an exceptional record for an attacking midfielder.
Despite turning 30, Fernandes remains a valuable asset in the transfer market, unlike many of United’s previous costly signings. Speculation suggests Real Madrid is preparing a £90 million (€107.6 million, $116.4 million) bid for United’s captain, a move that may not sit well with the club’s supporters, given his importance to the team.
A deal of this magnitude would set a new record for both United’s transfer expenditures and earnings. According to the Daily Record, Amorim has strongly advised Ratcliffe and INEOS executives against selling Fernandes, believing it would be a significant mistake.
Under Amorim’s tenure, United has struggled for consistency, making Fernandes’ reliability even more crucial. His 12 goals and nine assists in 27 matches under Amorim highlight his indispensable role in the squad. Amorim has yet to comment directly on the Real Madrid links but recently emphasized Fernandes’ value after his hat-trick against Real Sociedad in the Europa League, stating, “When we need him, he’s always there.”
Reports indicate that Real Madrid scouts have been closely monitoring Fernandes, viewing him as an ideal successor to Luka Modric. The 39-year-old Croatian legend, who has made 580 appearances and won 27 trophies with Madrid, may be nearing the end of his illustrious career.
While Ratcliffe previously dismissed the idea of selling Fernandes, a substantial offer could be tempting, especially with the club’s financial constraints and the need to comply with Profit and Sustainability rules. Additionally, Fernandes’ £300,000-per-week salary remains a significant financial commitment.
However, Ratcliffe is also aware that selling Fernandes could alienate supporters, making it a highly delicate decision. Fernandes himself revealed that he turned down offers last summer, choosing to stay at United because he believed in the club’s vision for the future.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Manchester United narrowly missed signing Cole Palmer from Manchester City during his youth career. On the transfer front, the club is actively considering Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as a potential signing, alongside evaluating offers for Antony, who may depart this summer.
