Overview

• The Manchester United captain turned down interest from three PIF-backed clubs, including Al-Hilal, an informal approach from Al-Nassr, and contact from Al-Ittihad.
• Cristiano Ronaldo personally reached out on Al-Nassr’s behalf, with Fernandes telling him he intends to remain in European football for the next 12 months.
• Agent Miguel Pinho spent a week in Saudi Arabia negotiating with Al-Hilal, who were prepared to pay over £80 million, with reports denying any £60 million release clause.
• Al-Ittihad’s attempt stalled because their foreign-player quota was full near the British transfer deadline.
• Reporting indicates Saudi dealmakers plan to try again in 2026, and United could be open to a sale then to help fund targets such as Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.