Romano post-Villa update: Man Utd want record-breaking midfielder in their squad next season if they qualify for UCL

2026-03-16 · Yahoo Sports

Manchester United are keen for Bruno Fernandes to stay this summer and play an integral role throughout 2026/2027.

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According to Fabrizio Romano, the club will be even more desperate for their skipper to stick around if they secure Champions League qualification by the end of the term, which they’re well on track to do following yesterday’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa.

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Bruno Fernandes: What’s been said about his United future?

Over the last few months, Fernandes has been facing an uncertain future in M16, with reports suggesting he might be considering pulling the curtains on his United tenure after five-and-a-half years.

There wouldn’t be any shortage of interest, either.

At only 31 years of age, the club captain remains one of the most influential and dependable midfielders in world football. As of right now, he’s head and shoulders above the rest.

As such, it’s thought that’s why United might also have been open to cashing in on Fernandes, given they could demand a lucrative fee from any potential suitor before his value decreases as he gets older – or before he reaches the final months of his contract, which expires in 2027 (though the club have a 12-month option).

(Fernandes’ record in all competitions for United)

United keen to continue with Fernandes for the foreseeable

However, his world-class showings this season have put an end to any desires to part ways from United’s end.

They are now preparing for a future with the Portuguese whiz continuing at the heart of their midfield, irrespective of who’ll be in the dugout long-term.

His contributions on Sunday saw him break the record for most assists in a single campaign; Fernandes took his tally to 16, overtaking David Beckham’s previous record, achieved in 2000, of 15.

The summer additions of forwards Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha have allowed Fernandes to take something of a backseat when it comes to goalscoring this term – albeit he still has eight goals to his name in the league – and tap into his creative side by producing chances for his teammates.