Manchester United will need to splash the cash to retain Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford this summer. The midfielder is weighing up his future and is expected to be flooded with approaches from rival clubs when the season concludes.

The frustrated Portuguese playmaker has grown disillusioned with the club’s operations and constant managerial upheaval. He nearly departed United last summer, but turned down an opportunity to move to the Saudi Pro League. He will hold off until this season ends before making his decision on what comes next.

Whilst Fernandes has been encouraged by Michael Carrick’s influence as caretaker manager, he’s keen to discover who will take charge permanently.

The 31-year-old recognises his upcoming contract will likely be his final lucrative agreement and that he must capitalise. He’s also aware that United hierarchy are anxious to prevent his departure.

United would boost their chances of retaining Fernandes if they can guarantee Champions League participation.

However, club executives will still need to present Fernandes with a package worth approximately £400,000-a-week, establishing him as their top earner.

This would represent a substantial rise from his existing deal, which expires in 2027 and includes an option for a further 12 months.

Fernandes understands his importance to United – and aims to exploit it fully.

Whether United would be prepared to offer such terms to a player in his thirties remains unclear. He would possess little resale value by the time any fresh agreement concludes.

Yet with Casemiro set to depart this summer, United will be removing someone on £400,000-a-week, making them more flexible financially.

Fernandes has claimed just two domestic trophies since arriving at United in 2020, and requires assurance that he is at a club capable of meeting his ambitions.