Fernandes’ current terms are due to expire in the summer of 2026 and though United would be able to extend that deal for another season, tying the 29-year-old to fresh terms would constitute a welcome sign of commitment from all parties. Fernandes was the Premier League’s leading chance creator last season and has delivered 79 goals in 234 appearances for the Red Devils.

Fernandes has been the subject of much speculation amid United’s struggles in recent seasons and was on the wishlist for the Saudi Arabian Pro League last season. In May the club captain confirmed that he intended to stay at Old Trafford, saying, “After this difficult season, it is my responsibility to give more”.

In the Community Shield, Fernandes made an impressive start to the new season as United pushed crosstown rivals Manchester City to a penalty shootout, albeit one from which Pep Guardiola’s side emerged victorious. At Wembley and in the closing weeks of last season, Fernandes was frequently deployed as the most advanced forward in the United lineup, operating as something akin to a false nine.

Meanwhile Manchester United are close to finalizing the double signing of Mathijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, who are expected to depart Bayern Munich for a combined fee worth over $75 million. The latter’s arrival has been facilitated by Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s impending move to West Ham United, where he was due for a medical on Sunday afternoon.

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