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Manchester United's rough patch have been extended to this season, with the club currently ranking 15th in the Premier League with three matches remaining for the ongoing campaign.
The Red Devils have bagged only 10 wins, suffered 16 losses, and nine draws in the Premier League this season. They were eliminated from the EFL Cup quarter-finals in December and then from the FA Cup fifth round in February.
However, Man United have turned things around for themselves in the Europa League and will fight for a spot in the final tonight. Amid all struggles, another silver lining for the Red Devils have been the consistent displays by captain Bruno Fernandes.
Fernandes has registered 19 goals and 18 assists in 52 appearances across competitions for United this season. Several reports have suggested that the Portuguese star has been identified as a top transfer target by Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.
Fernandes has been offered a massive deal by Al-Hilal, which estimates an annual salary of about £65 million, according to the Daily Mail. The 30-year-old's agents and Al Hilal representatives have reportedly held talks, and the Saudi side has presented a three-year contract.
Fernandes signed a contract extension with Man United last year that ensures his stay at Old Trafford until the summer of 2027. Recently, the deal was rumored to have a £60 million release clause. However, the aforementioned report dismissed those claims, rather stating that his current contract has the option of a 12-month extension.
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Amid the interest from Al Hilal and exit rumors surrounding Fernandes, Man United head coach Ruben Amorim has made the club's intentions clear about their No.8.
What did Man United boss say about Bruno Fernandes' exit rumors?
Al Hilal's interest and their huge potential offer led to uncertainties brewing about Fernandes' future at Old Trafford. Amorim, however, has candidly turned down the rumors.
While addressing the press ahead of their Europa League semfinal clash, Amorim addressed Fernandes' exit rumors and mentioned (comments via BBC Sport)that the club wants the player to stay.
"We want to keep the best players - and Bruno is clearly one of the top players in the world. We want Bruno here. It is easy to understand [his importance] - not just because of the numbers but the way he plays and the importance he has during his five years here," said the Portuguese manager.
"It's normal a lot of clubs want a player like Bruno. He is a leader and he's the captain, so he's really important. He is a top player, we need top players," he added.
While Amorim's comments about Fernandes' future can put Man United fans' minds at ease, the Red Devils have currently have a bigger worry at hand.
Man United will be locking horns with Athletic Club tonight at Old Trafford in the second leg of the Europa League semifinal. Even though they already have established a 3-0 lead over the Spanish side in the first leg, the stakes remain high for the Red Devils as it is their only shot at silverware this season, along with a chance to play in the Champions League for the next.
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