Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly rejected a second contract offer from the club, raising fresh questions about his future at Old Trafford as his current deal approaches its expiry date.
The club initially presented a new contract proposal during the summer when negotiations over an extension began, but the Portugal international turned it down. Fernandes signed his previous deal two years ago.
According to The Athletic, discussions between the midfielder’s representatives and Manchester United have continued since the summer, but both parties are yet to reach an agreement.
The latest development comes amid uncertainty at the club, with Fernandes’ long-term future now in doubt.
The 2025/26 campaign was an outstanding one for the midfielder, who helped United finish third in the Premier League and secure a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence.
He recorded 21 assists in the league, surpassing the previous single-season record jointly held by former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry and Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.
His performances earned him the Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year and Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Player of the Year awards, alongside Manchester United’s Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year prize.
However, Fernandes has reportedly struggled to reproduce those performances this season, with United languishing in the relegation zone.
The contract development also comes amid significant changes at Old Trafford following the club’s reported dismissal of Michael Carrick.
Manchester United are now said to be pursuing a deal to appoint Mauricio Pochettino, formerly of Tottenham Hotspur, as Carrick’s replacement.
Reports indicate that Pochettino has agreed personal terms with the club, which is prepared to activate his £7.4 million release clause to secure his departure from US Soccer.
With negotiations over Fernandes’ contract still unresolved, the coming months could prove crucial in determining the captain’s future at Manchester United.
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