Despite interest in Saudi Arabia, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is eager to keep Bruno Fernandes at Manchester United and intends to center his new team around the captain of the team, insiders have told Football Insider.

Ratcliffe is about to finalize an agreement that will enable him to purchase a minority 25% share in the team, marking the start of a staged takeover at Old Trafford.

One of the billionaire’s first responsibilities as manager of Man United’s football department may be to stifle Saudi Arabia’s interest in superstar midfielder Fernando Fernandes.

The 29-year-old Portugal international has recently been heavily linked to a possible move into the Saudi Pro League as they increase their extravagant spending.

However, Football Insider disclosed on Saturday, November 11, that Man United is not expected to consider any bids for their captain in January or during the summer transfer window of 2024.

Football Insider has been informed by a reliable source that the Red Devils are “desperate” to keep Fernandes from going to the Middle East in order to prevent “sending out the wrong signals.”

Furthermore, as he approaches his prime at Old Trafford, the former Sporting CP player is content there and has not yet entertained the idea of relocating to Saudi Arabia.

He is likely to play a significant role in the Ratcliffe reconstruction, which is anticipated to start with some minor transactions during the January transfer window.

Fernandes has started every Man United game in the 2023–24 Premier League and Champions League thus far.

Earlier this year, the midfield star—who reputedly makes £240,000 a week at Old Trafford—took Harry Maguire’s spot as the team’s official captain.

In other news, following the significant Ratcliffe news, Manchester United is looking to recruit Kylian Mbappe.