Michael Owen urges Man Utd to move heaven and earth for Fernandes

Manchester United face an impasse over extending captain Bruno Fernandes’ contract, prompting former England striker Michael Owen to warn the club it must ‘move heaven and earth’ to keep the Portugal international, as negotiations with the 2025/26 PFA Player of the Year stall ahead of the season’s final year of his deal.

United’s shaky start

While United have had a difficult start to the new season, winning just once in the Premier League so far, Fernandes’ quality remains unblemished. The attacking midfielder has scored four goals and provided one assist in five games across all competitions. He did attract criticism for his actions in the recent Manchester derby loss on Sunday.

His contributions have kept the Red Devils competitive despite the poor run of form. Owen highlighted that “lots of people talk about ageing players and not giving them new contracts, but Bruno is such an important part of Manchester United.” The former striker believes the team’s lack of leadership could worsen if the Portugal international departs.

Contract impasse and past interest

Fernandes is out of contract at the end of the season, though United hold an option to extend for another year, and negotiations are currently at an impasse. Last year the club entertained a big‑money offer from Saudi Pro League side Al‑Hilal, but the player chose to stay at Old Trafford to aid the rebuild. Galatasaray also made enquiries last summer, yet the Red Devils remain adamant that he is not for sale at any price.

Michael Carrick, United’s senior midfielder, has been urged by Owen to keep Fernandes at all costs. “If I was Manchester United, I’d be moving heaven and earth to try to keep him,” Owen said, adding that balancing the books is important but should not come at the expense of stellar results.

A Getty photograph captured Owen’s stern expression as he warned that losing Fernandes would be “a massive, massive step back”. He also noted that clubs like Chelsea are buying older players such as Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck for experience, underscoring the value of seasoned talent.

Owen argued that teams must be careful when off‑loading older players, warning that “you can soon be unpicked at the seams”. He believes Fernandes brings experience and absolute quality that is not regressing in any way.

For United, securing a new deal could stabilise a faltering campaign and retain the club’s best signing since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. For Fernandes, a contract extension would guarantee his role as captain and preserve his legacy at Old Trafford.