Al Hilal Won’t Back Down in Bruno Fernandes Chase

EPL Index

·11 mai 2025

Al Hilal Won’t Back Down in Bruno Fernandes Chase

Al Hilal Still Pursuing Bruno Fernandes Despite Rejection

Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal are refusing to abandon their ambitious pursuit of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, with club president Fahad bin Nafel orchestrating a third round of talks in the hope of luring the Portuguese playmaker to Riyadh.

Senior officials from Al Hilal remain undeterred after two initial approaches were rebuffed, including a high-level meeting on Monday involving Fernandes’ agent Miguel Ruben and lawyer Caetano Maria. That discussion, held in Europe, reportedly included the presentation of a highly lucrative three-year deal. However, it was firmly rejected by Fernandes’ inner circle.

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While Manchester United have made their stance clear — the 30-year-old is not for sale — Al Hilal are understood to be planning one last, aggressive push for the midfielder, showing a willingness to increase their financial offer and adapt to salary demands.

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Al Hilal Prepared for Final Negotiation Attempt

Sources close to the situation indicate that the upcoming third meeting is likely to take place in the coming weeks, as Al Hilal seek to tempt Fernandes away from Old Trafford with a package few players in world football could ignore.

Their first informal contact, believed to have taken place in London earlier this year, did not include financial details, but momentum has steadily built since. Al Hilal’s interest in Fernandes dates back to 2023, when previous attempts to open talks were immediately shut down.

With the Club World Cup approaching — and a marquee opening fixture against Real Madrid on 18 June in Group H — Al Hilal are eager to add global star power to their squad. They view Fernandes as an elite-level leader who can elevate their profile on the world stage.

Amorim’s Public Support for Fernandes

Sporting boss Ruben Amorim, who previously managed Fernandes and remains close to the player’s camp, reinforced United’s internal stance this past week. Speaking following their 4-1 semi-final win over Athletic Club, Amorim said:

“Our idea didn’t change. We want to keep the best players – and Bruno is clearly one of the top players in the world. We want Bruno here. It is easy to understand [his importance] – not just because of the numbers but the way he plays and the importance he has during his five years here. It’s normal that a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno. He is a leader and he’s the captain, so he’s really important. He is a top player, we need top players.”

That message was interpreted as a nod to United’s internal resolve. Fernandes, whose current contract runs until 2027, is believed to be fully committed to the club’s vision under new leadership.

Alternative Targets Identified by Al Hilal

Should their third proposal be rejected again, Al Hilal have identified contingency plans. Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimarães and Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans are both on their radar. The Saudi side are prepared to move swiftly for either midfielder should negotiations with Fernandes ultimately fail.

Still, there is a sense that Al Hilal view Fernandes as their marquee target. His 19 goals and 19 assists this season underscore why they remain so persistent. With Manchester United’s summer transfer strategy potentially hinging on the Europa League final against Tottenham, the timing of Al Hilal’s final bid could prove pivotal.