BACK Dylan Oakley Dec 17th 2025 Man United captain Bruno Fernandes has said that he is “sad” and “hurt” as he felt United wanted to sell him during the summer. Fernandes played a starring role during the Red Devils’ 4-4 draw against Bournemouth on Monday night, as he scored and assisted at Old Trafford, to help get United into the top six of the Premier League table. However, the midfielder was linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer, and it looked all but certain he was going to leave Old Trafford for a figure of £100m plus. However, Man United opted to keep hold of the Portuguese international, but he has now revealed that he was “sad” and “hurt” by the fact that United wanted to sell him. Fernandes “hurt” by Man United transfer decision Fernandes said in an interview with Canal 11 via Sky Sports: “From the club I felt, ‘if you go it’s not that bad for us’. It hurts me a bit. More than hurting, makes me sad, I’m a player who has nothing to point to, I’m always available, I always give the best of me.” Seeing as the midfielder’s current deal at Old Trafford is due to expire in June 2027, the Red Devils will begin to think about how they can replace him. Three potential Bruno replacements at Man United In terms of possible replacements for the 31-year-old, Man United would likely aim to sign a proven midfield star rather than a high-potential youngster, as they don’t want to lose that quality and experience that Fernandes provides in midfield. In the short term, their first option is Conor Gallagher, who has been linked with a return to the Premier League, as it has been said that United are keen to sign the Atletico Madrid midfielder on loan. It is understood that £26m could be enough to land him in the January window. Secondly, United could opt for current Premier League midfielder Joao Palhinha, who is on loan from Bayern Munich at Tottenham. They have been linked to signing the Portuguese star, who has impressed for Thomas Frank’s side this season. He has proven for Spurs, and previously Fulham that he can perform in the Premier league, so would be a safe choice to replace Fernandes with. Finally, if they wanted to spend more on a replacement, United have also been linked with Real Madrid star Federico Valverde, who they are hoping will make a similar move like Casemiro did in 2022. Valverde is expected to cost around £88m. He has made 17 La Liga appearances, providing three assists for Madrid so far this season. Click here to see Man United’s latest transfer news ahead of the January window.
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