Bruno Fernandes explains decision to reject £200m Al-Hilal offer to stay at Man United
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has confirmed he rejected a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal in order to remain at Old Trafford and continue competing “at the highest level.”
Al-Hilal were prepared to pay United a £100 million transfer fee and triple Fernandes’ current salary, offering the 30-year-old midfielder a deal worth approximately £200 million over three years.
Negotiations between the Saudi club and the player’s representatives were reportedly positive, but Fernandes ultimately declined the move.
“There was an opportunity. The president [of Al-Hilal] called me and asked if I wanted to go there. They were waiting for me,” Fernandes told reporters ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League semi-final against Germany.
“But I want to play at the highest level and compete for major titles,” he added.
Fernandes revealed he consulted with United head coach Ruben Amorim, who advised him against leaving.
“I spoke to coach Amorim and he asked me not to go. My wife asked me what I wanted to do.”
The midfielder also confirmed United were unwilling to part ways with him: “Manchester United didn’t want to sell me. They don’t need the money. If I had wanted to leave, they would have made it happen.”
