Manchester United have been forced to turn their attention to Bruno Fernandes as the summer transfer window enters its decisive phase.
Galatasaray have made an audacious approach for Fernandes, reportedly dangling a staggering £17.1 million salary package in front of the United captain.
According to The Athletic, Man United have entered contract talks with their club captain who also wants to remain at the club.
Fernandes is in the final 12 months of his contract at Old Trafford but United have an option to extend it by an additional 12 months.
He previously had a £56 million release clause available to foreign clubs, but that provision has now expired, meaning any suitor must negotiate directly with United.
Despite the growing interest, we strongly believe Fernandes will not leave Old Trafford this summer.
The 31-year-old was also courted by Saudi Arabia last summer, with Al-Hilal putting forward a huge proposal that he ultimately rejected after discussing it with his family.
He responded to that interest with a sensational campaign, producing nine goals and 21 assists last season.
He broke the all-time record for assists in a single campaign, leapfrogging the legendary achievements of Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne.
The Portuguese superstar carried his side on his shoulders and etched his name deeper into Old Trafford history by winning the prestigious Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award for a record fifth time.
He also won the Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year award and United’s Players’ Player of the Year honour.
With the transfer window entering its final two weeks, United simply cannot afford to sanction the departure of their most influential player.
The logical step from INEOS would be to offer a new two-year deal to Fernandes and hope that their club captain can produce his magic yet again in the upcoming campaign.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
