Manchester United midfielder Bruno Fernandes has reportedly opened the door to a potential summer exit.
After a campaign where he contributed 19 goals and 20 assists in all competitions, club captain Fernandes has solidified his status as Ruben Amorim's star player.
However, failure to qualify for the Champions League has left United and Fernandes as a crossroads moment, the club being limited in what they can spend in the transfer market and the player without continental football while at his peak.
In the aftermath of the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Fernandes acknowledged that United may have to consider "cashing in" on his signature and hinted that he was prepared to leave if the club wanted to sell him.
According to BBC Sport, that has become an increasing possibility in recent days as all parties consider their situation.
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What is latest Fernandes development?
The report claims that Fernandes is now giving 'serious consideration' to making the lucrative switch to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Hilal.
Fernandes's representatives are said to have held discussions with Al-Hilal to determine the numbers involved in any potential deal.
There is urgency regarding negotiations courtesy of Al-Hilal's upcoming participation in the Club World Cup, the objective being to have Fernandes in place for that tournament next month.
Amorim has consistently reiterated that he wants Fernandes to remain at Old Trafford for 2025-26 and beyond.
On the flip side, when United are spending £62.5m of an alleged £100m budget on Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, it may take the sale of Fernandes - for a reported £80m - to fund the rest of the changes to the squad.
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Decision in the balance?
There was a time when Fernandes was unwavering in his commitment to United and there is still every indication that remains the case to a large degree.
However, both Fernandes and United know the significance of Al-Hilal's interest, the player in a position to earn an astronomical pay-rise and the club able to generate a mammoth transfer fee for a player who turns 31 years of age in September.
In an ideal world, United and Fernandes would continue to work in unison for the remainder of his career at the top level, but Fernandes is perhaps realistic when considering whether he will get to add to his 25 Champions League appearances over the coming seasons.
With some big names, including Cristiano Ronaldo, potentially leaving the Saudi Pro League this summer, the PIF-owned clubs are ready to act, and Fernandes would arguably stand to become the star name in the division.
Darren Plant
