BRUNO FERNANDES is ready for the FA Cup final to be his Manchester United swansong.
SunSport understands the Red Devils captain is considering a summer move after four-and-a-half seasons at Old Trafford.
Fernandes stunned United earlier this month by hinting he could quit after the Euros for a fresh challenge.
At 29 the Portugal playmaker could extend his career outside the rigours of the Premier League in a less demanding league and in sunnier weather.
There will be no shortage of potential suitors with clubs from Saudi Arabia expected to declare their interest.
Fernandes missed the 4-0 humiliation at Crystal Palace as well as Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal through injury.
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The midfield star is battling to be fit for Wednesday’s visit of Newcastle as Erik ten Hag’s eighth-placed side battle for a European spot.
United are three points behind the Toon Army and Chelsea with two Prem matches left to play.
The Red Devils travel to Brighton on the final day and then face a daunting trip to Wembley for the cup final against neighbours City on May 25.
Fernandes is widely regarded as United’s best signing in the post Sir Alex Ferguson era.
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He is in his fifth season at the club since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 in a deal worth £55million, and has scored 79 goals and provided 62 assists in 230 games.
Fernandes signed a new contract in April 2022, which could run until 2027.
United legend Rio Ferdinand says Fernandes is one of the few players who will challenge under-performing Old Trafford stars after their 14th league defeat of the season.
Ferdinand told talkSPORT: “I know that Bruno points out things and pulls young players in. Whether you think he does it in the right way when he is on the pitch and might be too animated for some people.
“But I look at the last two games that United have played and they haven’t been good enough, he is a big miss to that team.
“He creates chances and makes other players look good. But he would be the one that would be pulling people and talking to people.”
Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s future
Where do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
Michael Owen – He has to go
“He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
“If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
Jamie Carragher – Sacked
“I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
“To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
Louis Saha – On the fence
“I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
Alan Shearer – Sacked
“I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
