Manchester United are considering selling their captain Bruno Fernandes amid interest from the Saudi Pro League with two major targets picked to replace the club captain.
Man Utd identify two priority targets
Amorim stressed the importance of securing a well-deserved victory at Old Trafford when Manchester United host “top team” Bournemouth on Monday, looking to continue a form that has seen United pick up seven points from three matches since the disappointment against Everton.
Captain Fernandes has been phenomenal in this series, scoring twice and providing three assists, but INEOS is now open to the Portuguese star leaving in order to fund new signings.
According to a recent report, Saudi Pro League clubs are set to offer Fernandes a way out of Old Trafford, with Al Hilal and Al Ittihad eyeing a move in the region of £70 million.
INEOS view the 31-year-old as the club’s most salable asset and someone worth cashing in on before his value declines, with his contract due to expire in just over 18 months.
The Red Devils have the option to extend his stay by a year until June 2028, but they have identified two main targets who will require funds: Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson and Brighton and Hove Albion agent Carlos Baleba.
Both players could cost the club record fees and INEOS is determined to ensure United’s financial security while rebuilding Amorim’s squad.
Forest are expected to demand more than £100 million for Anderson, while Baleba’s price tag is in the region of £74 million.
Mainoo could be sold instead
Man Utd gem might be ‘the best in the world’, but he’s becoming the new Mainoo
Manchester United have a star in their ranks who could suffer the same fate as Kobbie Mainoo.
The other option available to INEOS is to take advantage of its local talent, Kobbie Mainoo. Although the 20-year-old’s value has suffered after falling out of favor this season, his status as an England international guarantees a good return that would be considered pure profit.
Chelsea are reportedly interested in a move for the young midfielder, while Napoli are also interested in Serie A, where compatriot Scott McTominay has thrived since arriving in 2024.
Speaking in September, Amorim defended his decision to still leave Mainoo out of his team: “I understand what you’re saying. You like Kobbie… But that doesn’t mean I have to put Kobbie [in] when I feel like I shouldn’t wear Kobbie [in]so it’s my decision.
