Man Utd's contract saga with Bruno Fernandes still unresolved

Fabrizio Romano says Manchester United and Bruno Fernandes are still negotiating a new deal, but there is “no agreement” yet, confirming that talks have “not collapsed”. The Portugal international, now in the final year of his Old Trafford contract, remains at the centre of the saga.

Why United fought to keep Fernandes

Fernandes’ contributions were pivotal as United, under Michael Carrick, secured third place in the Premier League and earned a spot in this season’s Champions League. The Portugal international’s creativity and goal threat turned many matches in United’s favour.

During the summer, Turkish clubs and Saudi outfits, notably Galatasaray, submitted sizeable offers, yet United insisted on keeping him as a crucial player for the current campaign and the upcoming Champions League run. Their interest underscored Fernandes’ market value across Europe.

Contract talks and release clause

Romano confirmed that United and Fernandes have been in dialogue since June, with further talks in July, August and the recent weeks, yet a new contract remains unsigned. A key point of contention is the release clause and whether to trigger the optional one‑year extension already built into his deal.

Fernandes revealed last December that he felt “hurt” as the Red Devils were ready to entertain big offers in the summer of 2025, but he ultimately chose to remain.

Now in the final year of his Old Trafford contract, United have opened negotiations to persuade him to sign a fresh deal. Utd have also highlighted that Fernandes, like many players nearing expiry, gains greater leverage over his future.

For United, securing Fernandes would preserve the creative spark that helped them clinch a top‑three finish and maintain Champions League ambitions; for the Portugal star, the outcome will dictate his salary, length and the presence of a release clause that could shape his next career move.