Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has rejected a second offer from the club to extend his contract, leaving his future at Old Trafford unresolved as negotiations continue.
The Portugal international turned down United’s initial proposal during the summer before the club returned with improved terms in a renewed attempt to secure his commitment beyond the 2026/27 season.
However, the latest proposal has also failed to convince the 32-year-old, with salary and the length of the proposed contract understood to be the main sticking points between the two parties.
Despite the two rejections, negotiations have not broken down, with further discussions expected as United seek to reach an agreement with their captain. The club have made it clear that they want Fernandes to remain at Old Trafford.
Fernandes’ current contract runs until June 2027, meaning he could begin negotiating a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside England from January if his situation remains unchanged.
However, United hold an option to extend his existing agreement by a further 12 months, which would keep him at the club until June 2028. If activated, the clause would also prevent him from entering negotiations with foreign clubs over a potential free transfer during the January window.
The extension option gives United some protection against losing their captain without a transfer fee, although the club’s immediate preference is to agree fresh terms rather than rely on the additional year.
The midfielder’s contract situation has attracted attention before, particularly after Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal pursued his signature in May 2025. Fernandes ultimately turned down the opportunity to leave Manchester, opting to continue his career at Old Trafford.
His importance to United was further demonstrated during the 2025/26 campaign, when he recorded 21 assists in the Premier League to set a new single-season competition record.
The achievement earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award in August 2026, adding to his recognition as one of the league’s most influential midfielders.
Fernandes joined United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 and has since become a central figure in the club’s midfield, contributing goals, assists and leadership. He was appointed captain in 2023 and has remained one of the team’s most important players.
The rejection of two contract proposals now leaves United needing to find terms acceptable to both parties if they are to secure his long-term future.
With his current agreement approaching its final months, the coming negotiations will be crucial in determining whether Fernandes commits to another spell at Old Trafford or considers opportunities elsewhere.
