Bruno Fernandes is seriously considering an offer from Al-Ittihad.

Manchester United could be on the verge of losing one of their most influential players, as reports suggest that captain Bruno Fernandes is giving serious thought to a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad. The news has sent shockwaves through Old Trafford and beyond, raising questions about the future direction of both the player and the club.

Fernandes, who joined United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, has been nothing short of transformative for the team. His creativity, leadership, and relentless work ethic have made him a fan favorite and one of the most important figures in Manchester United’s dressing room. Yet, at 30 years old in 2025, the midfielder is now at a stage of his career where both financial and sporting considerations weigh heavily on his decisions.

Al-Ittihad’s approach is reported to be highly tempting. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s ambitious football project, the club is ready to offer Fernandes a contract that would significantly surpass his current wages at United. Beyond the financial incentives, there is also the allure of joining other global stars who have already made the switch to the Saudi Pro League, helping elevate the competition’s profile worldwide.

For United, the potential departure of their captain would represent a massive blow. Fernandes has not only been the team’s creative heartbeat but also a figure of resilience during turbulent times. Whether under Erik ten Hag or in the club’s recent managerial transitions, Fernandes has consistently been the player United turned to in big moments. Losing him would leave a leadership vacuum that might prove difficult to fill.

The Portuguese international has long expressed his love for United and has often reiterated his desire to win major trophies at Old Trafford. However, the reality is that the club has struggled to return to its former glory in recent years. While Fernandes has collected personal accolades and enjoyed moments of brilliance, the lack of consistent silverware may push him to consider a different adventure.

Sources suggest that Al-Ittihad’s proposal is not just about money. The project being presented to Fernandes involves making him the centerpiece of their midfield, a marquee figure around whom the team would be built. For a player accustomed to carrying responsibility at United, the idea of being both a leader and a symbol of Saudi football’s rise could be an intriguing challenge.

The timing of this potential move is also notable. Manchester United are in the middle of restructuring under new ownership ambitions, with the club seeking to balance major signings with financial fair play restrictions. Selling Fernandes, should he decide to leave, could free up significant resources. But the trade-off is clear: they would lose their most consistent performer and risk alienating fans who see Fernandes as irreplaceable.

Al-Ittihad, meanwhile, continue their aggressive recruitment drive. The Saudi Pro League has already attracted global icons in recent seasons, and Fernandes could be the next major European star to join. For the league, his arrival would add both technical brilliance and global marketability, further strengthening its reputation as a serious destination for elite players.

For Fernandes personally, the decision may come down to legacy versus opportunity. Staying at Manchester United would allow him to cement his status as a club legend, continuing the fight to bring the Red Devils back to the top of English and European football. Moving to Saudi Arabia, however, would open the door to a completely new chapter — financially rewarding, historically significant, but perhaps less competitive at the very highest level.

As of now, Fernandes has not made a final decision, but the fact that he is seriously considering the offer is enough to unsettle United fans. They know that keeping their captain happy is crucial not only for his own performances but also for the morale of the entire squad.

What happens next will depend on negotiations between the player, his representatives, and both clubs. But one thing is certain: whether he stays or leaves, Bruno Fernandes’ future will shape the next era for both Manchester United and Al-Ittihad.