United superstar picks his ideal successor, wants Ineos to sign 21-yo Portuguese playmaker – report

Bruno Fernandes is convinced about who should inherit his mantle at Manchester United, leaving the decision firmly in INEOS’ hands. Arguably United’s most impactful signing since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, Fernandes has been the heartbeat of the Red Devils’ attack ever since his arrival from Sporting Clube de Portugal in January 2020. Fernandes: United’s driving force The numbers back up his influence. Fernandes, with 106 goals and 103 assists in 320 appearances, has been immense for the 20-time English champions. Even amid the club’s struggles this season, Fernandes has arguably produced his finest campaign in United colours. Regardless of whether he is deployed as a deep-lying playmaker or in his favoured No.10 role, he has consistently carried the team. Most of United’s attacking play has flowed through him. He has fashioned a staggering 99 chances in the league, 43 more than any other player, while also delivering 17 assists and scoring eight goals in 30 matches. Preparing for life after Bruno As the 31-year-old is about to enter the last 12 months of his contract with United, there is a debate over whether they should cash in or extend his stay. But one truth remains: they must begin planning for life without him. Replacing Fernandes will be no easy task. Few modern No.10s combine creativity, consistency, and leadership as seamlessly as he does. Fernandes identifies his heir While United deliberate, Fernandes himself has pointed to his preferred successor. According to The Sun, he would love his compatriot Mateus Fernandes of West Ham United to take over his role at Old Trafford. As the outlet explains: “Bruno Fernandes will recommend that his Manchester United replacement is a Portuguese midfielder called Fernandes.” The report further notes: “Relegation and record £104.2m losses could force West Ham to sell the £40m midfielder they signed from Southampton last summer.” However, United face stiff competition, with Manchester City circling as well. As The Sun adds: “United might have to act fast, with rivals City having a potential secret weapon. Their sporting director, Hugo Viana, who originally brought Mateus to Sporting Clube de Portugal and oversaw his first professional contract, is a strong admirer.” Why United should act fast Fernandes recently admitted he follows Bruno closely and tries to emulate him. Should United make their move, he would likely favour Old Trafford over the Etihad. Still raw, he could be introduced gradually, learning under Bruno next season, before eventually stepping into his shoes. Such a succession plan would soften the blow of losing their talisman and ensure continuity in United’s creative hub. Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.