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Manchester United have made an underwhelming begin to the season, securing only one level from their first two Premier League matches.
It’s not been all unhealthy, with some promising performances throughout the pitch, and there may be nonetheless appreciable pleasure round Ruben Amorim’s expensively-assembled new entrance three.
Fernandes’ future unsure
The signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, coupled with a resurgence within the type and availability of Mason Mount, clearly signifies that Bruno Fernandes’ future lies in a deeper midfield position.
It’s not his pure place and requires far more self-discipline than the extra free-roaming method he was used to taking as United’s creator-in-chief behind a central striker.
He finds himself caught in an issue space of Amorim’s setup, the place every of the Portuguese’s midfield choices appears to be missing in a method or one other.
Saudi curiosity
Fernandes has been United’s talisman for years however had followers on edge earlier this summer time when Al-Hilal made him a proposal value £200m, together with bonuses, over three years.
The 30-year-old finally rejected the eye-watering method and was agency in his conviction that he wished to remain at Previous Trafford.
However final week one other Saudi Professional League aspect – Al-Ittihad – expressed an curiosity in Fernandes, with a £33m-a-year deal reportedly mentioned to set tongues wagging a couple of potential last-minute Previous Trafford exit for the participant.
That is regarded as unlikely however The Every day Mail make the large declare that Fernandes will probably be “open to leaving Manchester United” on the finish of the season, which means the clock is already ticking on a possible explosive exit.
The Man United Confidential report claims that the participant “needs to remain at Previous Trafford for one more season and keep away from any disruption earlier than enjoying for Portugal within the World Cup subsequent summer time”, however signifies that every one bets may very well be off thereafter.
The outlet claims that Fernandes, who could be practically 32 at this level, would then be open to a brand new mission both in Saudi, the MLS or in one other high European league. What’s extra, they speculate that United could be tempted to money in on their captain at that time, notably if his struggles in central midfield proceed.
Something can nonetheless occur
Many United followers are clamouring to see Kobbie Mainoo given sport time within the position presently occupied by Fernandes, who uncharacteristically missed a penalty within the 1-1 draw at Fulham final weekend.
In the end, say the Mail, it’s “unlikely” that the participant will depart this summer time however even that will change if Al-Ittihad make a big “take-it-or-leave-it provide earlier than the Saudi switch window closes on September 10”.
The chances are Fernandes will play out the remainder of the season with United, however it will not be a shock if the Mail are right and a transfer subsequent summer time materialises.
Featured picture Clive Brunskill through Getty Pictures
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