Real Madrid could have a chance to sign Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes this summer after previously being linked with the Portuguese playmaker. The La Liga giants have reportedly been eyeing the Red Devils' captain but talk of a potential move was refuted by Fabrizio Romano.
Fernandes has been enjoying arguably his best season at United. He has made 25 appearances across competitions, posting six goals and 13 assists.
Madrid are expected to sign a new creative midfielder this summer and the 31-year-old could fit the bill. He has been used in a deeper role over the past year during Ruben Amorim's tumultuous reign, but moved back into his preferred attacking midfield role when Michael Carrick arrived in January.
Real Madrid's hopes of signing Man Utd's Fernandes rest on Carrick
Fernandes is loving life under Carrick who was appointed as United's caretaker manager. So much so, that he is reportedly prepared to leave the Premier League club if the Englishman isn't handed the job permanently.
According to Topskills Sports UK, the former Sporting CP man has informed the higher-ups that he will "100% leave" if his current coach isn't retained. He revealed in the winter that he felt the club were trying to sell him last summer when talk of a move to the Saudi Pro League occured.
🚨💣 EXCL: Bruno Fernandes has told Manchester United he will 100% LEAVE the club if Michael Carrick is replaced. 🔴🇵🇹😳
— Topskills Sports UK (@topskillsportuk) February 16, 2026
The Portuguese star has made his position crystal clear to the board.
Bayern Munich remains the clear favorite to sign him, with Vincent Kompany fully… pic.twitter.com/7J5YvYsV9E
Carrick could be crucial if United are to keep their captain at Old Trafford. He will have a year left on his contract this summer.
The report claims that Bayern Munich are interested in signing Fernandes and that Vincent Kompany is backing the potential transfer. That speaks volumes of how highly-regarded the Portuguese midfielder is given top European clubs are eager to sign him in his thirties.
Real Madrid must swoop for Fernandes if available
Fernandes would be a magnificent signing for Madrid and hand whoever is in charge next season more options in midfield. He would also bring leadership qualities with him that have helped the Red Devils during a difficult period.
If Los Blancos want any advice on a potential swoop, they can turn to their legendary former midfielder Casemiro. The Brazilian has spent four years playing alongside the Portugal international and dubbed him "world class" back in 2023.
There are other midfielders who have been linked with Madrid including Paris Saint-Germain's Vitinha. But the club could be looking at spending over €100m if they want to sign Fernandes' compatriot.
That wouldn't be the fee required to sign Fernandes because of his contract situation and age.
He has won the FA Cup and the League Cup during his time at Old Trafford, making 315 appearances, scoring 104 goals and providing 99 assists.