Why Bruno Fernandes’ United contract talks are far from over
Fabrizio Romano has identified three specific obstacles standing between Bruno Fernandes and a new Manchester United contract, insisting there is no cause for panic despite reports the captain has rejected an initial proposal.
The clarification came after Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri wrote on X that Fernandes had turned down United’s opening offer, which included only an extra €500k per year, and that he could theoretically leave as a free agent in 2027.
What Romano actually said
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano pushed back on the idea that a rejection equals a breakdown, pointing out that Fernandes is contracted until 2027 with a club option for an additional year, meaning United are, in his words, absolutely protected.
Romano stressed the current situation is a negotiation rather than a collapse, adding that Michael Carrick views Fernandes as a very important player and that the relationship between captain and club remains strong. United’s broader stance on Fernandes’ future has been consistent with that framing throughout the summer.
“It’s about the salary. Don’t forget that Rashford returned to Manchester United, and so Rashford’s salary is obviously a point. Then there is the length of the contract. That’s an important point. And then there is the release clause, because Bruno has a release clause in his current contract at United of around €65m.” – Fabrizio Romano
Why the release clause matters
Romano explained that United and Fernandes still need to agree whether to keep, remove or alter that clause, along with when it could be activated and for how long it would remain valid. It’s a detail that connects to the commercial and financial considerations already shaping talks around his next deal.
He was also blunt about the stakes for Fernandes personally, noting the 31-year-old is no longer 20 and that this deal is likely to be one of the last two or three of his career, which raises the importance of getting every term right.
Romano’s conclusion was simple: negotiations are ongoing, both sides want a resolution, and there’s no need for panic or drama around a process that was always going to take time.
