“I Know That He Is a Very Good Player But We Have to Get Rid of Him in the Summer” – Ruben Amorim Prepares Manchester United Overhaul

Manchester United’s new sporting director Ruben Amorim has dropped a bombshell regarding the club’s summer rebuild plans, suggesting captain Bruno Fernandes could be sacrificed to accelerate the squad’s transformation. The Portuguese executive has reportedly identified four key targets as part of his vision to revitalize the struggling giants.

Amorim’s controversial stance emerged during internal discussions about United’s disappointing 13th-place Premier League position. “Fernandes is world-class, but his presence inhibits our younger talents,” Amorim was quoted telling club officials. “A fresh start requires difficult decisions.” This revelation comes amid strong interest from Real Madrid, who are prepared to test United’s resolve with a £90 million offer.

The proposed overhaul focuses on constructing a younger, more dynamic squad capable of implementing Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system. Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite tops the defensive wishlist, with the 22-year-old earmarked to form a new-look back three alongside Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt. Current veterans Victor Lindelöf and Jonny Evans are expected to depart when contracts expire.

In midfield, Amorim wants to reunite with Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand, valuing the Danish international at £50 million. The 24-year-old’s arrival would compensate for Fernandes’ potential exit while providing steel alongside Manuel Ugarte. Kobbie Mainoo’s future remains uncertain, with the academy graduate yet to agree terms on a new long-term deal.

The attacking department faces the most radical changes. Victor Osimhen has been identified as the priority striker target, with Napoli reportedly open to negotiations after loaning the Nigerian to Galatasaray. Current forwards Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have managed just six league goals combined, prompting Amorim to consider including Højlund in a swap deal.

Amad Diallo is set for a prominent role upon returning from injury, while Red Bull Salzburg’s Oscar Gloukh (20) has been scouted as Fernandes’ creative successor. The Israeli playmaker’s £35 million release clause makes him an attractive option to rejuvenate United’s attack.

Financial Fair Play considerations loom large over these plans. The potential Fernandes sale would generate significant funds, but United must also offload other high earners. Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Antony are among those likely to be made available as Amorim reshapes the squad.

Amorim’s blueprint represents a stark philosophical shift from recent transfer strategies. By prioritizing players aged 24 or younger, he aims to build a squad with long-term growth potential rather than quick fixes. This aligns with CEO Omar Berrada’s mandate to restore sustainable success after years of expensive underachievement.

The proposed starting XI (3-4-3): Onana; Yoro, De Ligt, Branthwaite; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Hjulmand, Dorgu; Amad, Gloukh; Osimhen

Fan reaction has been divided. While many acknowledge the need for change, Fernandes’ potential departure after scoring 79 goals in 230 appearances sparks emotional debate. The Portuguese midfielder remains United’s most creative force, leading the squad for chances created and distance covered this season.

Amorim faces a delicate balancing act – maintaining competitiveness while implementing his vision. With no European football likely next season, the rebuild carries added risk. However, the former Sporting director’s reputation for identifying talent suggests United may finally adopt a coherent recruitment strategy.

As the summer window approaches, all eyes remain on Fernandes’ future. His sale would symbolize the end of an era and the boldest statement yet of United’s new direction under Amorim’s guidance. Whether this high-stakes gamble pays off may define the club’s trajectory for years to come.