Bruno Fernandes commits future to Manchester United in major midfield boost

Manchester United have received a significant boost to their midfield plans for the coming seasons, and it has nothing to do with a new arrival through the transfer window. According to the Daily media, Bruno Fernandes has made it clear he wants to stay at Old Trafford as contract extension talks continue. Fernandes has been the club’s standout performer in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, racking up more than 100 goals and 100 assists since his arrival from Sporting CP in January 2020. The Portuguese playmaker has made 327 appearances for United, lifting the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. His individual brilliance was recognised last season when he was named Premier League Player of the Season for 2025-26 after driving United to a third-place finish under Michael Carrick. Fernandes delivered a record-breaking 21 assists in 35 league appearances, setting a new single-season mark in the Premier League era. Despite his talismanic status, the 31-year-old revealed earlier this year that he had previously turned down three opportunities to leave the club. With only one year remaining on his current contract, speculation about his future had persisted. However, the media now reports that Fernandes has expressed a desire to remain at United as both parties continue discussions over a renewal. Manager Michael Carrick is said to be eager to keep hold of the midfielder as he builds a side capable of challenging for the title. The same outlet suggests Fernandes’ salary could rise to as much as €468,000 a week (£400,000) if he puts pen to paper on a new deal. Speaking to media in May, Fernandes addressed his commitment: “It's not a question of loyalty. I could have gone two years ago, I could have gone three years ago, I could have gone last season, but I really like to be here. I think that being successful at this club is something that I can never get at another club.” United have already been active in the summer window, bringing in Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow. sources understands the club are also keen to add another central midfielder, with Bournemouth’s Alex Scott a target — though Chelsea have reportedly had a €75m (£64m) offer for Scott rejected. Scott played a key role in Bournemouth’s remarkable sixth-place finish last season, which secured qualification for the UEFA Europa League.