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Bruno Fernandes shows true colours when asked about Saudi Pro League transfer

Bruno Fernandes was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia during the summer transfer window, but the Manchester United midfielder insists he was always focused on staying at Old Trafford

[Bruno Fernandes speaking to Sky Sports]

Bruno Fernandes has opened up about a potential move to Saudi Arabia(Image: Sky Sports)

Bruno Fernandes has disclosed that next summer's World Cup had no influence on his decision to remain at Manchester United.

The Red Devils skipper was reportedly targeted for a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia during the summer, but the midfielder maintains that his sole focus was on staying put at his current club, despite ongoing speculation.

Rumoured approaches from Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad have been doing the rounds, yet the Portugal international remains devoted to spending at least another year at Old Trafford.

At 31, Fernandes has two seasons remaining on his deal, plus an option for an additional 12 months, and continues to be a vital cog in Ruben Amorim's plans.

Back in June, Fernandes disclosed that Al-Hilal's president had contacted him regarding a potential transfer. The Saudi outfit were reportedly prepared to splash out a staggering 300million package - 100m to United and a 200m deal for the playmaker himself.

[Bruno Fernandes.]

Bruno Fernandes could have left in the summer(Image: CameraSport via Getty Images)

The ex-Sporting ace has experienced a patchy campaign so far following two penalty failures, though he's been one of the few bright spots in what's been a disappointing 2024-25 season at Old Trafford. Fernandes has still managed to find the net twice this term, nonetheless.

Speaking before Portugal's World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland, the midfielder tackled the rumours swirling around his future. Fernandes offered a straightforward explanation for his choice to stick with United, reports the Mirror.

"I didn't close the door on moving to Saudi Arabia because of the World Cup," he declared. "That was never in my mind. I wanted to stay at Manchester United, and the club wanted me to stay. That's all there is to it.

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"That's an impossible scenario to imagine, because it's nothing that's been discussed with me. When it was discussed with me, I spoke openly with you at a press conference before a Nations League match.

"I like to enjoy the moment, and the most important thing for me now is representing the national team, because it's a source of enormous pride to be able to play tomorrow [Saturday], and I still don't know if I'll play, let alone if I'll leave Manchester United in a year.

"I'm happy where I am; otherwise, I wouldn't have stayed, but it's something that doesn't affect me."

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