Manchester United has reached out to Athletic Club to notify them of their intention to activate the exit clause in Oihan Sancet’s contract this summer, following alarming reports from Spanish media indicating a potential record-breaking departure from Old Trafford for Bruno Fernandes.
The influential Portuguese player has been pivotal in preventing Manchester United from facing even greater humiliation this season, reaffirming his status as one of the club’s most significant signings in the past decade. With an impressive tally of 19 goals and 19 assists from 54 appearances this season, averaging a goal or assist every 122.9 minutes, it is concerning to consider the club’s position without his contributions.
Currently, Fernandes has accumulated 98 goals and 86 assists in 287 matches for the Red Devils, a fact not overlooked by Sir Jim Ratcliffe or Ruben Amorim, both of whom have publicly emphasized that selling him is not an option for Old Trafford.
Nevertheless, recent strong reports suggest that Fernandes may still be tempted to leave, especially as Al-Hilal, having missed out on Mo Salah this summer, has now turned its attention to the Manchester United captain.
A recent report indicated that a groundbreaking offer of €70 million (£59 million) per season could entice the 30-year-old to leave Old Trafford this summer. For context, Fernandes currently earns £15.6 million annually, meaning he would receive a substantial pay increase should he accept the transfer.
Furthermore, Spanish source Fichajes reports that Al-Hilal has allocated an astonishing £510 million for a high-profile signing this summer, and while the actual amount needed may be less, any offer exceeding £200 million would establish a new world record.
This narrative has gained further credibility through journalist Ben Jacobs, writing for GiveMeSport, who asserts that Al-Hilal is prepared to extend a record-setting proposal to acquire Fernandes, identified as their primary target.
Now in light of growing fears that Fernandes could depart, Fichajes claims United have now launched a firm bid of their own to sign Sancet as his replacement – and have informed the LaLiga side they are ready to trigger the clause in his contract.
How much a deal for Oihan Sancet will cost Man Utd
The report indicates that United has targeted the Bilbao star as a potential acquisition to strengthen their midfield. It is asserted that United has initiated a bid for Sancet, who has become a viable signing option due to the anticipated departure of Fernandes, whose transfer to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League is reportedly gaining momentum.
Additionally, it is suggested that the Red Devils consider Sancet a fitting candidate to assume Fernandes’ position, although it is recognized that securing his transfer may prove challenging, given that the midfielder’s contract extends for another seven years until 2032.
Nevertheless, there is optimism that United can finalize his acquisition, as the four-time capped Spain international, who has recorded 17 goals and three assists this season, has a release clause set at €80 million (£67.4 million, $89.5 million).
While some may perceive a move for Sancet as a step down from Fernandes, former Liverpool player and BBC Sport analyst Stephen Warnock argues that United cannot afford to dismiss any offers for their players, including their influential captain.
“No transfer is off limits for Manchester United, especially if they lose the Europa League final,” Warnock told CasinoApps. “That includes Bruno Fernandes – they will need funds, and they may see him as the lifeline to reinvest in the squad.
“I know there have been links to the Saudi Pro League, I’d hope he’s more ambitious than that. The money he’ll be on at United will be more than sufficient, but you just never know in football. United’s hand may be forced by financial constraints.”
Man Utd transfer latest: Six goalkeepers shortlisted; Barca superstar backs Rashford
Currently, it is reported that Amorim has determined that replacing Andre Onana with a more dependable goalkeeper is essential for the Red Devils this summer, as a report has disclosed the six players on his wish list.
Sales are expected to significantly influence United’s summer recruitment strategy, and it has been reported that Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has approved an unexpected acquisition from Old Trafford that could enhance their transfer budget.
Additionally, with Marcus Rashford likely departing, a new report from Spain suggests that an exceptional player from Barcelona has strongly endorsed his signing, as the Catalan club is prepared to sell eight players to facilitate the transaction.
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