Man Utd Reach Decision: Bruno Fernandes Stays
Manchester United have made it clear Bruno Fernandes won't be sold this summer. Meanwhile, the club is expected to make an official approach for Ollie Watkins if Joshua Zirkzee departs.
A Decision Reached on Fernandes
According to TEAMtalk sources, Bruno Fernandes will not be allowed to leave Manchester United this summer. Despite persistent links to other clubs, those reports have reportedly been dismissed by the Red Devils.
As a result, it would take a mammoth offer to see the Portuguese captain allowed to leave Old Trafford — though no actual figure has been named. Head coach Michael Carrick has reportedly made his delight in working with Fernandes clear and expects him to play a key role again next season. Taken together, sources suggest the chances of the captain exiting United are "very, very slim."
Expectations Building for a Watkins Bid
United's priority this summer window has been the midfield — following the signings of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, and after backing out of a deal for Atalanta's Ederson, the club is still searching for a third midfield addition.
But there's movement elsewhere too. Both United and Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close eye on Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who scored 21 goals in all competitions last season. With speculation growing over Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee's potential return to Serie A, United are expected to make an official approach for Watkins should that scenario play out. The exact valuation is unclear, but offers around £40 million could reportedly be entertained by Villa. Villa are said to not want to push their striker out, but progress on a potential record signing of Nicolas Jackson could change their stance on letting Watkins go.
Goalkeeper Situation in Flux
Despite having several goalkeepers at their disposal — Senne Lammens, Karl Darlow, Tom Heaton, and Altay Bayındır — United are reportedly seeking a solution for the latter and have also been linked with a new name: Paraguay international Orlando Gill.
However, there's a clear contradiction among sources on this one: Fabrizio Romano has poured cold water on the report, while Gill's representatives claim United will submit a formal offer in the coming days. Gill's current club, San Lorenzo, have stated they've had no contact with United so far — suggesting Romano's assessment is likely the more accurate one.
This article is based on reporting from TEAMtalk.
