Manchester United are currently in contract negotiations with midfielder Bruno Fernandes, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. The club is eager to secure the 32-year-old's services for another term at Old Trafford after interest from Galatasaray and clubs elsewhere in Europe and Saudi Arabia emerged during the summer. However, talks have taken longer than expected due to disagreements over specific contract clauses and potential bonuses. Fernandes' current contract runs through June 2027, and United have an option to extend it for another year.
Manchester United currently sits in 13th place in the Premier League after four games, with only four points earned from those matches, according to The Guardian. Their opening fixtures included a 2-0 loss to Hull, a 5-2 victory over Ipswich, a 2-2 draw with Everton, and a 1-0 defeat by Manchester City. The loss to City was particularly tough, as the match came just three days after a Champions League win over Sabah. Manchester City had more rest time following their win at Porto, but United still struggled to maintain control in the derby.
Manager Michael Carrick’s team lacked energy and failed to create meaningful chances despite having a numerical advantage early in the game. The lack of creativity from the midfield, particularly with Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans, was a major issue. United did not keep a clean sheet, losing 1-0 after Erling Haaland scored in the second half. The goal was later acknowledged by refereeing body Pro Ref as having been incorrectly allowed because Enzo Fernández was interfering with play from an offside position.
The club’s summer signings have yet to make a significant impact in the early part of the season. United brought in midfielders Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, and Carlos Baleba for a combined investment of about £148 million. Santos made only one start, while Tielemans has played in all four league games but remains largely anonymous. Baleba, the most expensive signing, is still sidelined due to injury and is not expected back until after the international break.
The lack of impact from these signings has been especially concerning given that United’s left-back position remains a weak link. Despite interest in players like Lewis Hall, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and David Raum, United failed to make a move for a new left-back. Instead, the club added three midfielders, which some believe was a misstep given the team’s need for defensive reinforcement. Luke Shaw, the regular left-back, was unavailable due to injury during the City match, forcing Carrick to use Patrick Dorgu as a stopgap. Dorgu’s performance in the role was unconvincing, especially when compared to his previous appearances as a wide-forward.
The team’s summer acquisitions have not yet delivered on their promise, which is especially evident in the early season. Benjamin Sesko has seen some playing time and scored in two of United’s matches, making him one of the club's top scorers. Sesko scored in the 2-2 league draw at Everton and again in the 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah.
Despite the challenges, the club’s management is still focused on improving performance and building a competitive squad. The contract negotiations with Fernandes are ongoing, but progress has been slow due to the complexity of the terms, according to a report from ESPN. United’s interest in keeping Fernandes is clear, but the club must balance financial and performance expectations. Fernandes has started all six United matches this season and scored four goals, including one against Sabah. United have not reached an agreement with Fernandes, but Romano has said the two sides remain in negotiations and have a good relationship.
As the season progresses, United’s ability to manage these negotiations will likely influence their overall direction and performance.