Al Hilal dreams of signing Bruno Fernandes, but Rúben Amorim shuts the door

Bruno Fernandes has long been on the radar of clubs in Saudi Arabia, and with the rapid growth of the Saudi Pro League continuing to make headlines, it's no surprise that interest in the Portuguese star has resurfaced.

At the heart of the latest reports is Al Hilal, the Riyadh-based powerhouse that recently parted ways with Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus and is now looking to strengthen its squad for the upcoming season. According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Al Hilal is eyeing Bruno Fernandes as a marquee summer signing.

The 30-year-old Manchester United captain, who has been a mainstay at Old Trafford since his arrival in January 2020 from Sporting CP, is reportedly one of Al Hilal’s top targets as the club seeks to maintain its domestic dominance and boost its international profile. Currently sitting second in the Saudi Pro League, Al Hilal remains one of the richest and most ambitious clubs in the Middle East, already boasting a roster filled with big names, including Neymar (currently sidelined with injury), Sergej Milinković-Savić, Rúben Neves, and Aleksandar Mitrović.

In many ways, Bruno Fernandes would be the perfect addition to that lineup a proven leader, creative force, and consistent performer in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. His vision, set-piece delivery, and ability to score from midfield make him a valuable asset for any team. And from a marketing standpoint, his name and presence would only further elevate the Saudi league’s growing global appeal.

However, despite Al Hilal's interest, the path to signing Bruno Fernandes is far from straightforward. For now, Romano reports that no official contacts have been made between Al Hilal and Manchester United, and sources close to the English club have made it clear that Fernandes is not for sale.

The situation at Old Trafford is also evolving rapidly. After another turbulent season marked by inconsistent performances and growing pressure on the current coaching staff, the Manchester United board is reportedly preparing a major reshuffle both in terms of squad planning and management. Portuguese coach Rúben Amorim, currently at Sporting CP, has been heavily linked with the potential managerial position at United should the current regime come to an end. Amorim is known for his tactical discipline, development of young talent, and a style of play that could fit well in the Premier League.

What complicates the matter further for Al Hilal is that both the Manchester United hierarchy and Amorim if appointed view Bruno Fernandes as central to the club’s rebuild. Fernandes is not just the team captain; he is the creative engine in midfield, consistently delivering high numbers in goals and assists even during United’s less successful campaigns. He is also one of the few players in the squad whose leadership on and off the pitch has remained unquestioned.

Still under contract until 2026, Fernandes shows no public sign of wanting to leave. The attacking midfielder is enjoying another productive season, with 19 goals and 16 assists in 52 matches across all competitions. His durability, commitment, and output have made him one of the most indispensable players in the squad.

There are, of course, still many moving parts. The Saudi Pro League has shown it can move quickly and decisively when it comes to transfers, often surprising the European market with massive offers that clubs and players find hard to refuse. Financially, Al Hilal certainly has the means to present an eye-watering proposal both to Manchester United and to Fernandes himself. The question remains whether the player would be willing to swap the Premier League spotlight and Champions League aspirations for a project in Saudi Arabia, even with the financial lure.

As of now, Fernandes remains fully focused on finishing the season strongly with United, as the club battles to secure European qualification and seeks to end the campaign on a positive note. Unless there is a dramatic shift in either the player’s intentions or the club’s strategy, a summer exit seems unlikely especially with a potential new managerial project on the horizon that is expected to revolve around him.

Al Hilal’s dream may be bold and ambitious, but for now, it looks like Bruno Fernandes is staying put.