Man Utd's 'stance' on Bruno Fernandes amid 'big interest' from Saudi Pro League

Bruno Fernandes is thought to be attracting 'big interest' from the Saudi Pro League but reports suggest Manchester United are confident he will stay - and they could even offer him a new long-term contract.

Fernandes celebrated four years at United on January 29 and has become a mainstay in Erik ten Hag's plans since the Dutchman took over in 2022. Having spent much of last season taking the armband from Harry Maguire on a temporary basis - he lifted the Carabao Cup alongside his teammate - the midfielder was named as the new club captain last summer.

Having penned a new four-year contract in 2022 - United also have the option to extend that for a further 12 months - Fernandes' place at United is secure for the foreseeable. But Football Insider reports of interest coming from Saudi Arabia, namely Al-Hilal, who see him as their next marquee target.

There is said to be calm surrounding Fernandes' future at Old Trafford with plans in place to discuss a potential new deal that could keep him in Manchester beyond 2027. The Portuguese international is also said to be perfectly happy where he is and there is no inclination he could move on in the summer.

Reports of Saudi interest in Fernandes have been common in recent months, following last summer's transfer window in which a number of European stars moved to the Middle East. The United midfielder was quizzed about the reports back in November but allayed fears of any imminent move.

"I'm focusing on the national team and United. I'm happy where I am,” he told Sport TV in Portugal. "In the national team, we had some very good times, at Manchester United we didn't start the way we wanted. I don't look at rumours. I don't pay attention to them. Today, it's very easy to spread rumours in the press. I prefer to concentrate on my goals."

Fernandes' influence on United has waned a little this season, registering just three goals and five assists in the Premier League - although it has been a disappointing campaign across the entire team. The Portuguese international has come up with big moments, however, netting important winners against Burnley and Fulham.