Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United prioritise captain’s stay amid Galatasaray interest

Manchester United do not intend to accept any offer for captain Bruno Fernandes before next month’s transfer deadline, with senior Old Trafford sources telling the BBC that the Portugal international is now regarded as unavailable at any price.

The club’s position goes beyond simply rejecting potential bids for the 31-year-old. United believe Galatasaray would be wasting its time by making an approach, even though the Turkish club has been considering a proposal that could eventually be worth €50m (£42.7m).

The BBC understands that Galatasaray, Juventus and AC Milan have all been examining whether Manchester United might be willing to discuss a move for Fernandes as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.

However, United have made clear that they want their captain to remain at the club. No formal offer has yet been submitted for Fernandes, but the English side’s stance is that he is not available for transfer regardless of the fee proposed.

That represents a change from last summer, when Manchester United gave Fernandes the freedom to decide whether to accept a substantial offer from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.

Fernandes later admitted he had felt “hurt” by the way United handled the situation. This time, the club is determined to prevent uncertainty over his future from developing into a formal transfer negotiation.

The midfielder has one season remaining on his current contract, although Manchester United hold an option to extend the agreement by a further year. Fernandes is understood to prefer staying at Old Trafford.

His £57m release clause has now expired, while United and the player have yet to reach an agreement over a new contract. That leaves the club in a strong position in any possible negotiations, even though there is currently no indication that it plans to enter them.

Any decision over Fernandes’ long-term future will also come against the backdrop of growing pressure from supporters. The reaction directed at the captain during last week’s friendly against Leeds in Dublin highlighted the scrutiny Manchester United could face if fans believe the club is not doing everything possible to retain him.

Fernandes enjoyed an outstanding campaign last season, setting a Premier League record with 21 assists. He is also the leading contender to be named Manchester United’s player of the season for 2025-26, with the award due to be decided in Manchester next week.

For now, United’s message is that the captain will remain central to the club’s plans, despite interest from leading European clubs and the unresolved question of a new contract.