Manchester United and Bruno Fernandes continue contract talks despite rejection
Manchester United remain confident a new deal can be reached with captain Bruno Fernandes, who has turned down two improved offers, while the club prepares for a managerial change.
Manchester United said they are still in negotiations with captain Bruno Fernandes after the Portugal midfielder rejected a second contract proposal. Sources told ESPN that the club and the player's representatives are discussing an extension, and United believe an agreement can still be reached.
Fernandes, 32, is under contract until the end of the current season and could start talks with other clubs from Jan. 1 if no deal is signed. United also hold a one-year option to extend his contract to June 2028, giving the club additional time to finalize terms.
The midfielder, who was named PFA Player of the Year last season after setting a Premier League assist record, has seen a dip in form since August. After a 4-1 Champions League loss to Como, he appeared to criticize Michael Carrick's tactics and was subsequently benched for the following match against Bournemouth. He returned to the lineup for games against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa.
United dismissed Carrick after a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa and have appointed Mauricio Pochettino as the new manager on a two-and-a-half-year contract. Pochettino's first match in charge will be against Liverpool at Anfield on Nov. 22.