Bayern Munich join race for £70m Manchester United skipper

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Bayern Munich have joined the race to sign Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes’ long term future at United continues to draw speculation following last summer’s saga with Saudi Pro League clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.

The Portugal international turned down lucrative salary offers reported to be nearly triple his wages at United, opting to stay in Manchester for another year. Fernandes did however leave the door open to a possible future departure when he admitted that United could choose to “cash in” on him for the right price.

With just over 18 months remaining on his contract, Daily Mirror has reported Bayern Munich is now ready to compete with Saudi Pro League clubs for the player’s signature. United have reportedly placed a £70m price tag on their talisman.

The Red Devils were one of last summer’s biggest spenders after a £236m outlay. Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko all arrived at Old Trafford following a disappointing 2024/25 campaign. United is understood to open to entertaining offers for all players if the price is right.

United’s league position come the end of the season is expected to play a factor in Fernandes’ future as well, with the club having already missed out on European football this season. At 31, Fernandes could see his next contract as his last lucrative long term deal.

A move to Bayern could suit the player, as he would stay amongst Europe’s elite. While Fernandes is believed to be weighing up all options ahead of next summer’s transfer window, he moved to distance himself from rumours of the World Cup impacting his decision to stay in Manchester.

Speaking ahead of Portugal’s World Cup qualifier against the Republic of Ireland earlier in October, he stated:

“I didn’t close the door on moving to Saudi Arabia because of the World Cup.”

“That was never in my mind. I wanted to stay at Manchester United, and the club wanted me to stay. That’s all there is to it.”

He continued, stating that any talks of a future departure are premature until a concrete offer is presented.

“That’s an impossible scenario to imagine, because it’s nothing that’s been discussed with me,” he said.

“When it was discussed with me, I spoke openly with you at a press conference before a Nations League match.”

“I like to enjoy the moment, and the most important thing for me now is representing the national team, because it’s a source of enormous pride to be able to play tomorrow [Saturday], and I still don’t know if I’ll play, let alone if I’ll leave Manchester United in a year.”

“I’m happy where I am; otherwise, I wouldn’t have stayed, but it’s something that doesn’t affect me.”

Nadji is a football writer with over 10 years of experience covering the Premier League. His work has been featured on Football Fancast, Arsenal-Mania, and Arsenal.com, where he has built a reputation for delivering sharp analysis, engaging storytelling, and in-depth coverage of the game.