Bruno Fernandes Rejects Second Man United Contract Offer

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has turned down a second proposal from the club over a new contract, sources have told BBC Sport.

The Portugal midfielder’s current deal is due to expire at the end of the season, although United hold an option to extend it by 12 months until 2028.

The club would prefer to agree a fresh long-term deal rather than rely on that clause, and talks have taken place with Fernandes’ representatives in recent months.

However, the second offer has now been rejected. It is not clear exactly when the decision was communicated, but with United undergoing major upheaval, a quick resolution appears unlikely.

If no agreement is reached, United are expected almost certainly to activate the one-year extension before 1 January. After that date, Fernandes would be within six months of his contract expiring and would be free to sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs.

The stand-off comes during a turbulent period at Old Trafford. Michael Carrick was dismissed as head coach on Thursday after the club made its worst start to a domestic season in 40 years. Mauricio Pochettino, currently in charge of the United States, is expected to take over and is set to begin his reign at Liverpool on 22 November.

United will hope Pochettino’s arrival helps persuade Fernandes to commit his future to the club. Fernandes came close to joining Pochettino’s Tottenham in 2019 before the move collapsed, and he signed for United from Sporting six months later.

Fernandes has scored six goals in 13 appearances for United this season.