Manchester United have opened talks with Bruno Fernandes over a new contract as the club seeks to secure the long-term future of its captain, according to the Daily Mail.
The Portugal midfielder is entering the final year of his current agreement at Old Trafford, although United hold an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months.
United’s decision to begin discussions follows renewed interest in Fernandes from abroad. Galatasaray have been linked with a move for the 31-year-old, but Sky Sports has reported that the Premier League club are not prepared to entertain offers for their influential playmaker.
The £57 million release clause in Fernandes’ contract for overseas clubs has also expired, increasing the importance of the negotiations as United look to avoid uncertainty over his future.
Fernandes has remained central to the club’s plans since joining from Sporting in January 2020. He was appointed captain ahead of the 2023-24 season and signed his previous contract extension in August 2024, keeping him at United until 2027.
His position has been strengthened by a record-breaking 2025-26 campaign. Fernandes set a new Premier League record for assists in a single season and was named the Football Writers’ Player of the Year, while Manchester United also recognised him with a fifth Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award.
The midfielder has made clear in the past that he wants to remain at Old Trafford, having previously rejected the prospect of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. United’s latest talks represent an attempt to align that commitment with a longer-term agreement.
