Since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, Fernandes has established himself as one of United’s most important signings of the modern era, scoring 99 goals and providing 86 assists in 294 appearances for the club. The 30-year-old recently opened his account for the new season, converting a stoppage-time penalty to seal a dramatic 3-2 win over Burnley at Old Trafford.
According to talkSPORT, Fernandes was the subject of strong interest during the transfer window, with Al-Hilal among the clubs pushing hardest. His agent, Miguel Pinho, even travelled to Saudi Arabia for talks. While Al-Hilal never tabled a formal bid, they reportedly made it clear they were willing to pay upwards of £80m to secure his signature.
Fernandes, however, chose to remain in Europe, with a desire to be in peak condition for the 2026 World Cup thought to have influenced his decision. Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad are also said to have tested the waters, but the midfielder again reaffirmed his commitment to United.
Al-Nassr head coach Jorge Jesus even admitted his interest, telling Sport Informa:
