Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping offer from Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal, choosing instead to remain in Europe and continue playing at the highest level of football.
According to multiple credible sources—including Fabrizio Romano, talkSPORT, and Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg—Al Hilal made a massive approach for the Portuguese star, offering a three-year contract worth £200 million and a £100 million transfer fee to Manchester United. But Fernandes declined the offer, signaling his commitment to top-tier European football.
Mega Deal Turned Down
Al Hilal’s bid was one of the most lucrative ever seen in modern football. The Saudi club, known for signing top stars like Neymar and Kalidou Koulibaly, hoped to lure Fernandes with a staggering salary package and the promise of becoming a centerpiece of their growing football project.
Reports claim the proposed deal included £200 million spread across three seasons, placing him among the highest-paid athletes on the planet. United would have also received a £100 million transfer fee had the move gone through.
But despite the financial temptation, Fernandes turned down the offer.
EXCLUSIVE: Bruno Fernandes has REJECTED Al Hilal proposal. ❌
Despite crazy contract proposal from the Saudi Pro League club, Bruno Fernandes wants to continue playing football in Europe.
Man United captain wants to play at top level in Europe. Decision made. pic.twitter.com/7liKWOHETs
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 3, 2025
Fernandes Focused on Elite Football
The 29-year-old midfielder is believed to have rejected the offer because of his desire to keep competing at the top level in Europe. Fernandes has consistently stated his ambition to win major trophies and compete in the UEFA Champions League—something he wouldn’t be able to do in the Saudi Pro League.
His decision comes at a time when many European stars have moved to the Middle East for big paydays. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kante are just a few examples of players who’ve accepted offers from Saudi clubs. However, Fernandes isn’t ready to follow that path just yet.
Social Media Sparks Transfer Buzz
United fans were on edge over the weekend after Fernandes posted a cryptic message on social media:
“If you tried and failed, congratulations! There are people who don’t even try.”
The message led to speculation that the midfielder was hinting at a potential move or expressing frustration. But following the confirmation that he turned down Al Hilal’s offer, the post is now being interpreted as a motivational message—one that reflects Fernandes’ character and competitive mindset.
United’s Captain Holds the Line
Bruno Fernandes has been a key figure at Manchester United since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020. He was named club captain in 2023 and has remained one of the most consistent performers in the squad. Known for his leadership, creativity, and work rate, Fernandes has played a crucial role in United’s midfield and is often seen as the heartbeat of the team.
He scored 15 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions during the 2024/25 season, even as United endured a turbulent campaign that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and lose the Europa League final to Tottenham.
New manager Rúben Amorim is believed to view Fernandes as central to his rebuild project. Losing him would have been a major setback, both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence
Al Hilal’s pursuit of Fernandes highlights the growing ambition of the Saudi Pro League. The Gulf nation has been investing heavily in football, signing global stars and aiming to raise the profile of its domestic league. The goal is to make the Saudi league one of the top five in the world within the next decade.
Al Hilal were reportedly ready to hand him a captain’s role and build their midfield around him. The financial offer was nearly impossible to match from any European club, but Fernandes’ rejection shows that top players still place value on legacy, competition, and prestige.
Portugal Star Keeps Focus on Europe
Fernandes, who has earned over 65 caps for Portugal, is expected to play a key role in the national team’s plans for Euro 2028 qualifiers and beyond. Staying in Europe means he will remain in the spotlight of UEFA competitions and maintain the competitive edge needed for international tournaments.
For now, Fernandes remains committed to Manchester United and determined to compete at the top. Turning down a £200 million contract is rare, but for a player like Bruno Fernandes, the desire to compete—not just cash in—continues to define his career.
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