Al-Hilal are reportedly making a significant move to sign Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, with the Saudi club aiming to secure a marquee signing ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. According to reporting by Chris Wheeler for the Daily Mail, Al Hilal are prepared to offer Fernandes a contract worth up to £200 million over three years, which would see his salary quadruple from £280,000 to £700,000 per week, tax-free. The proposed package would also include a transfer fee of around £100 million to Manchester United.
Key Points from the Report
Salary and Contact: Fernandes would receive a three-year deal worth £200 million, including bonuses, equating to roughly £65 million per season.
Transfer Fee: Al Hilal are ready to bid £100 million for the Portuguese midfielder.
Negotiations: Fernandes’ agent reportedly held face-to-face talks with Al Hilal representatives at a hotel in Riyadh, with discussions continuing late into the night. The club is pushing for a quick decision as they finalize their squad for the Club World Cup, which begins in June 2025.
Manchester United’s Position: United are under financial pressure after a disappointing season that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and miss out on European competition. While the club would prefer to keep Fernandes as a key figure for a squad rebuild, the financial offer from Al Hilal could be difficult to refuse, especially given their current circumstances.
Other Club Interest: While Fernandes has also been linked to Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, Al Hilal are currently the most aggressive suitor.
Club World Cup Context
Al Hilal are one of four AFC teams participating in the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, having qualified as winners of the 2021 AFC Champions League. The club is seeking to bolster its squad with high-profile talent to make a strong impression on the global stage, and Fernandes would be the marquee signing they desire for the tournament.
Also Read: Bruno Fernandes vs Luka Modric – All Stats You Need To Know
Next Steps
- Al Hilal are ready to formalize their offer and issue the paperwork if Fernandes agrees to personal terms.
- Manchester United’s decision will likely hinge on their need for funds versus the importance of Fernandes to their rebuilding plans.
If completed, this transfer would be one of the biggest in Saudi Pro League history and a major statement ahead of the 2025 Club World Cup.
