Juventus have reportedly identified Bruno Fernandes as an ambitious target this summer, while a different European club is also plotting a raid for the Manchester United captain.
The Old Lady beckons
Having missed out on qualifying for the Champions League with a sixth-placed finish last season, Juventus are in something of a state of flux. It has been six years since Italy’s most successful side finished first in Serie A, having won the previous eight titles before that.
Luciano Spalletti replaced Igor Thiago in October after a terrible start to the campaign, and there is hope that the 67-year-old tactician can build on the progress made in the last nine months. The decision to trigger a one-year extension in his contract is a testament to that.
If Juventus are to reclaim their throne at the summit of Serie A under Spalletti, he will need support, however. A talismanic new signing will need to arrive in Turin; a player capable of lifting those around him.
Spying an opportunity to exploit Fernandes’ contract situation at Old Trafford, the Old Lady appear ready to make the Portugal international their new talisman, according to Fanatik.
INEOS have been locked in negotiations with Fernandes’ camp to agree a contract extension. His current deal expires next summer, with the option for another year. Crucially, it also contains a release clause worth £57 million to clubs outside of England.
A report relayed by The Peoples Person claimed these talks had stalled. Fanatik goes one step further, revealing they have “failed”.
The Turkish outlet claims Juventus have entered the race as a result, though it notes the “financial conditions” in Turin will make any pursuit difficult, particularly as another rival is prepared to make a massive offer to the player.
Galatasaray ready to strike
Süper Lig champions Galatasaray are understood to consider Fernandes a dream signing. Fresh from their fourth title on the bounce, they are planning to target big-name players from Europe’s top leagues to make more of a splash in the Champions League next season.
Head coach Okan Buruk wants a new No.10 to strengthen his side, leading Galatasaray to zero in on Fernandes. Fanatik claims the Lions are “working hard” to strike a deal, having closely followed the progress of his talks with Manchester United.
The report states Galatasaray are willing to pay Fernandes an annual salary of around £17 million, which equates to a weekly wage of £325,000. However, the more lenient taxation system in Türkiye means this £17m would actually be worth even more. The 31-year-old currently takes home £250,000 a week at Old Trafford.
Nevertheless, there is virtually no chance Fernandes would be open to a switch to the Süper Lig at this stage of his career. The fact that Galatasaray are said to be preparing a £25 million offer only makes the prospect even more improbable.
Final Thoughts
Having turned down even greater sums from the Saudi Pro League last summer, Fernandes went on to break the Premier League’s all-time assist record. Despite his 32nd birthday fast approaching, the Maia native remains at the very top of his game, and one of the best players in Europe.
Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 35 | 35 | 9 | 21 | 5 | - | 3,068' |
| FA Cup | 1 | 1 | - | 1 | - | - | 90' |
| EFL Cup | 1 | 0 | - | - | - | - | 45' |
| Total | 37 | 36 | 9 | 22 | 5 | - | 3,203' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
Manchester United’s No.8 would be more open to a switch to a heavyweight like Juventus, even if the Italian side resemble more of a fallen giant at this stage. But without the gambit of Champions League football to offer, or the financial muscle to lure him to Turin, the Old Lady can also be safely ruled out of the running.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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