Sources: Bruno Fernandes contract talks making no progress despite Carrick discussion

North Bank Insider exclusive: Bruno Fernandes contract talks stall

Bruno Fernandes has been at the heart of news in relation to Manchester United this past week, for his comments post-match at Como after United held a 4-1 loss, then, Carrick’s decision to drop the skipper on Sunday against Bournemouth, where United got beat 0-3 miserably. 

Bruno Fernandes and under pressure manager, Michael Carrick met on Tuesday at Carrington and it’s understood the two discussed how to ‘clear the air’ in the wake of Bruno’s criticism towards the gaffer, however sources indicate that while the meeting smoothed relations in some aspects (Bruno likely to return to the lineup for the Chelsea trip), it’s understood that Bruno still has doubts with Carrick at the helm, and so, proving a stumbling block when it comes to the Red Devils’ discussing fresh terms with the 32-year old. 

Sources say that talks have stalled for weeks now, with no progress made and that an agreement on fresh terms for the Portuguese international at Old Trafford appear unlikely despite talks with Michael Carrick on Tuesday. The club captain is contracted until 2027 + 1yr extension option, which at present is unlikely to be activated. Bruno has concerns regarding Carrick, the main problem being that Carrick doesn’t have the backing of the captain in many departments including tactics - United have a winless streak of eight games in all competitions. Furthermore, it’s understood Fernandes is in general, concerned about the ambitions of the club going forward. 

It’s worth noting that should Michael Carrick depart which looks inevitable given the extreme pressure he is under, combined with executives continuing background checks on potential new bosses, then Fernandes’ contract talks may pick up pace again, dependent on the new set-up (manager and ambitions) going forward.

Sources indicate that Galatasaray hold a very firm interest in the midfielder having made contact in summer. Also, Ruben Amorim’s AC Milan and rivals, Inter are also thought to be keen on the United skipper.