In a stunning development ahead of the summer transfer window, Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal have reportedly submitted a record-breaking offer for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. According to The Athletic, the bid surpasses the current British transfer record of £115 million, which was set by Moisés Caicedo’s move from Brighton to Chelsea in 2023.
Al Hilal’s ambitious proposal doesn’t end with the transfer fee. The club is said to be offering Fernandes a staggering £65 million annual salary—more than triple his current wages at Old Trafford. If accepted, the move would not only set a new benchmark for players over the age of 30 but also signal a major coup for the rapidly growing Saudi league.
A Tempting Yet Controversial Offer
At 31, Fernandes remains one of United’s most vital players. This season alone, the Portuguese playmaker has registered an impressive 19 goals and 15 assists across all competitions, proving his enduring value to the Red Devils. He played a pivotal role in the club’s 3-0 Europa League semifinal first-leg victory over Athletic Bilbao, keeping United’s hopes alive for a European trophy and a backdoor entry into next season’s Champions League, given their dismal 15th-place standing in the Premier League.
The offer places Manchester United in a precarious position. On one hand, a nine-figure fee for a player over 30 is unprecedented and could aid the club’s rebuilding efforts. On the other hand, Fernandes’ leadership and creativity are irreplaceable assets, particularly during one of the club’s most turbulent seasons in recent memory.
A Career-Defining Decision
Fernandes has not publicly responded to the offer, choosing to stay focused on United’s European campaign. Yet the allure of Al Hilal’s proposal is hard to ignore. The Saudi Pro League has already become home to stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Otavio, who have maintained high competitive standards while securing financial windfalls. Fernandes could follow a similar path, balancing personal gain with professional relevance, especially with Portugal’s national team in mind.
While Spanish outlet Marca claims Real Madrid have valued Fernandes at around £90 million, United have thus far shown no willingness to part with their captain. Club officials view him as a central figure in any future plans, and losing him would not only hurt their on-field prospects but could also signal a lack of ambition to fans and potential recruits.
What’s Next?
As the summer window approaches, the ball is now in Fernandes’ court. Whether he opts for the financial rewards and growing profile of Saudi football or remains loyal to a struggling but historic club like Manchester United could have ripple effects throughout the transfer market.
For now, the Red Devils will hope their talisman can stay focused and fire them to European glory—while club executives brace themselves for one of the most high-stakes transfer sagas in recent history.
