Reports indicate that Real Madrid is planning a significant move to acquire Manchester United`s captain, Bruno Fernandes, during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Representatives from Real Madrid, under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, have been consistently observing Fernandes, attending almost every Manchester United match, both at home and away, throughout the current season.
It is anticipated that Madrid`s pursuit of Fernandes will involve a transfer fee of approximately £90 million, as reported by The Star.
Such a sum would represent a record-breaking sale for Manchester United, surpassing the £80 million Real Madrid previously paid for Cristiano Ronaldo in 2009.
Real Madrid is expected to undertake a significant restructuring of their squad at the end of the current season. This could include potentially signing Liverpool`s right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer.
Fernandes is viewed as a priority signing, potentially stepping into the shoes of Luka Modric, whose contract is expiring this summer at the age of 39.
Despite Manchester United`s underwhelming season, where they are currently positioned 13th in the Premier League, Fernandes` individual performance has been a positive highlight.
Last summer, speculation arose about Fernandes` possible departure after he acknowledged it was “possible.”
However, the 30-year-old midfielder ultimately committed to Manchester United by signing a lucrative contract extension in August, worth £3250,000 annually until 2027.
Nevertheless, the allure of competing for major trophies with Real Madrid could prove to be a strong incentive for Fernandes to make a move.
Fernandes has been a standout performer for United, contributing 16 goals and assists this season, including eight Premier League goals and four in the Europa League.
His ability to produce moments of brilliance is frequently relied upon by the club, and he is consistently available for matches.
Fernandes recently mentioned that he had received offers to leave the club last year but chose to stay, driven by his belief in the club`s potential for future success.
Manchester United`s financial constraints have been openly discussed by minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ratcliffe has indicated that the club faced potential financial difficulties, justifying cost-saving measures.
It`s suggested that Manchester United is open to considering significant offers for all players in their current squad.
However, Bruno Fernandes stands out as a particularly successful signing for United since Sir Alex Ferguson`s retirement in 2013.
Since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 for £47million, Fernandes has impressively scored 95 goals and provided 82 assists in 227 appearances across all competitions for Manchester United.
Despite his contributions, opinions on Fernandes are divided, with some critics pointing to his on-field demeanor and expressions of frustration.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane is among those who have questioned Fernandes` suitability as team captain.
Keane has publicly criticized the notion of Fernandes being a savior for Manchester United, especially considering their league position.
In contrast, Ian Wright, a co-host with Keane, argued that Manchester United would face even greater struggles without Fernandes` presence.
Since these criticisms, Fernandes has responded with strong performances, including a hat-trick against Real Sociedad in the Europa League and a notable free-kick goal against Arsenal in the Premier League.
Fernandes has expressed his ambition to surpass club legends like Andy Cole and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in Manchester United`s scoring charts and reach 300 appearances for the club.
Many Manchester United supporters believe Fernandes deserves to compete for major trophies, beyond the FA Cup and Carabao Cup titles he has won with the club.
