Bruno Fernandes transfer saga takes surprise twist as new ‘meeting set up’ over shock Man Utd exit

Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal are reportedly preparing a fresh attempt to sign Bruno Fernandes from Manchester United.

It was reported earlier this month by Saudi journalist that Al Hilal, who have qualified for this summer’s Club World Cup, had made initial contact with Fernandes‘ representatives over a potential transfer.

United boss Ruben Amorim re-iterated after his side’s 4-1 win over Athletic Bilbao last week that he wanted to keep his captain at Old Trafford.

The Portuguese midfielder’s contract at United expires next summer but there has been no indication that he is willing to leave the club.

However, journalist Ben Jacobs reports that Al Hilal have not given up on their pursuit, and are planning a fresh meeting with the player’s representatives ‘this week’.

And it is added that Fernandes will have just one week to give a ‘final answer’ on whether he wants to sign for the club.

Al Hilal have identified Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans as an alternative option for if Fernandes rejects a move.

Fernandes’ future has taken a new twist (Image: Twitter/@BenJacobs)

Even if the midfielder was open to the move, however, Al Hilal would still have to negotiate with Manchester United.

It was reported in January that Real Madrid were not willing to pay a £100 million fee to bring the 30-year-old to the Bernabeu – and that asking price would surely skyrocket if United qualify for the Champions League.

Amorim’s side must defeat Tottenham in the Europa League final on May 21 to achieve European football for next season – with the result potentially going a long way to deciding whether Fernandes stays at the club or not.

In March, however, the Portuguese star stated that he turned down an offer from an unnamed club to depart Old Trafford last summer, and talks surrounded his future with then manager Erik ten Hag revolved around whether he would remain a key part of the side rather than a potential desire to leave.

He said: “We talked about the possibility of me leaving the club or staying. They said what they wanted from me.

“I just asked if they still see me as part of the future of the club or not. I spoke at the time with Ten Hag also.

“He was very clear with me, the club was very clear with me, that they thought I would be a big part of this rebuild. I thought that we could be successful.”