Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has reportedly been given a deadline to make a final decision over a potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
The Red Devils are still reeling from Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, ending their hopes of playing European football next season.
Fernandes appeared to open the door to a summer exit following the loss in Bilbao, explaining he could depart if the club “want to do some cashing in” this summer.
The midfielder’s comments were delivered amid speculation over a big-money transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, who are keen to recruit a high-profile player ahead of the Club World Cup in the USA.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Al-Hilal have not given up hope of persuading Fernandes to join the club in the summer transfer window.
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Al-Hilal set Fernandes transfer deadline
According to the Daily Mail, Al-Hilal have now set a deadline for Fernandes to give his answer as to whether he would be willing to join the Saudi Pro League side this summer.
Al-Hilal want Fernandes to make his decision by the end of May, as they grow in confidence that they can agree a deal to prise him away from Old Trafford.
In fact, Al-Hilal are expected to make their final offer in the ‘coming days’ before giving Fernandes 72 hours to deliver his final answer.
The report claims that Al-Hilal are ready to splash out £100m on a player who is under contract until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend by a further year.
They are willing to offer the 30-year-old a lucrative £700,000-a-week deal that would earn him £65m-a-season with a signing-on fee and bonuses.
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Should Man United sell Fernandes?
Fernandes has been Man United’s standout player in a forgettable season, having scored 19 goals and provided 19 assists in 56 competitive appearances.
The Red Devils are keen to retain their captain’s services, but while he is a key player in Ruben Amorim‘s side, the club would surely have to consider a sale if they are offered £100m for a player who is set to turn 31 in September.
The financial incentive of a potential sale is also stronger after Man United missed out on the riches of Champions League qualification.
From the player’s perspective, he may decide it is the right time to leave the club despite being happy with his situation at Old Trafford.
Fernandes may also find it difficult to turn down the lucrative deal, especially as he is set to receive a 25 per cent wage cut following Man United’s failure to secure European football.
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