- Man Utd need to sort out Bruno Fernandes’ contract
- Red Devils captain’s current deal expires in 2027
- Michael Carrick doesn’t need the distraction
Manchester United will head into next season with Michael Carrick at the helm and he’ll have the best player in the Premier League to call upon.
Bruno Fernandes is coming off the best campaign of his United career thus far. The Red Devils captain broke the all-time assist record in a single Premier League season with 21 assists in 35 league games.
The 31-year-old once again carried United through hard times and flourished when the good times arrived under Carrick. His future had been in doubt last summer when he emerged as a top target for Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal.
Man Utd must hurry with Fernandes contract
Fernandes turned down a reported £65m-a-year salary offer from Al-Hilal and stayed at United. He recently explained his decision to Wayne Rooney, saying that he “didn’t want to leave Manchester United when we were in difficulty.”
With just one year left on his contract, there is pressure on the club to ensure he remains at Old Trafford long-term. Heading into Carrick’s first full season with the Portuguese playmaker the subject of speculation could be an unnecessary distraction.
United will be wary of Fernandes’ current contract including a £57m release clause. That gives clubs the opportunity to try and sign him.
As the weeks progress and there’s no breakthrough in talks over an extension, uncertainty grows. Carrick shouldn’t be in a situation come the end of August where he is fretting over his skipper’s future.
The good news is United have reportedly started talks over a new deal, per Fabrizio Romano. He currently sits on £300,000 per week but most fans will agree that he more than deserves it.
Fernandes joined the club from Sporting CP in January 2020 in a £67.7m deal. He’s since made 327 appearances, scoring 107 goals and providing 108 assists.
Build a team to compete
Fernandes will be heading off to the World Cup with Portugal and putting aside contract talks. He has the chance to win the most illustrious tournament in world football.
For United, they will be preparing for a first pre-season under Carrick. He will be busy discussing transfer plans which includes a midfield overhaul.
Ederson seems likely to become his first signing in a potential £38m deal. There are a host of other names on the club’s shortlist including Elliot Anderson, Aurelien Tchouameni and Mateus Fernandes.
