Man Utd start looking for the perfect Bruno Fernandes replacement just hours after he says no to a new contract
Manchester United are already keeping an eye on a possible replacement for Bruno Fernandes in case he decides to leave Old Trafford next summer.
Fernandes’ current contract runs until June 2027, with an option to extend it by another year, but the club really wants to lock him in for even longer. They’ve been in talks with their captain since the summer, but after he turned down their first offer, things have been a bit tricky. Just recently, Fernandes also said no to a second contract offer, especially after hearing about Michael Carrick’s departure.
According to The Athletic, United made an improved offer, but the 32-year-old still isn’t fully happy with the terms. Fernandes joined Man United from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 and is widely seen as their best signing since Sir Alex Ferguson left. He’s played 341 games, scoring 113 goals and setting up 111 assists, making him a key player in their attack.
What’s more, Fernandes can start talking to clubs abroad about a free transfer from January 1. It seems like Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada, two of United’s key staff, have already started looking for someone to take over.
The Sun reported that United are watching Como’s rising star Nico Paz. Paz caught attention when he scored twice and helped in another goal during Como’s 4-1 Champions League win over United recently. Como paid £60 million to buy Paz from Real Madrid this summer after a loan spell, and he’s been impressive, with eight goal contributions in just four Champions League games this season.
Paz, 22, signed a two-year contract with Como, but Real Madrid included a £67 million buy-back clause they can use next summer. He mostly plays as a central attacking midfielder but can also fit in on the right wing, as a false nine, or a deep playmaker – similar to Fernandes’ style. Known for his sharp passes and excellent finishing, Paz looks like a strong candidate to fill the big shoes if Fernandes leaves.
The big question is whether Paz would want to move to Manchester. Mauricio Pochettino, who recently signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at United, knows Paz well, but Como probably won’t sell for less than £67 million. The club’s coach, Cesc Fabregas, thinks very highly of Paz and has praised him many times. Back in October 2025, Fabregas called him “a champion” with the talent and determination to reach the top if he stays hungry and humble.
Fabregas also said Paz needs the freedom to express himself on the pitch, not to be “robotic.” He mentioned a chat they had where Paz said he was ready and eager to play.
So, while Fernandes’ future is still uncertain, United are preparing just in case by tracking a very exciting young player who could be the next big star at Old Trafford.