Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has rejected a second contract offer from the club, according to a report from The Athletic, just as incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino prepares to take charge. The 32-year-old Portuguese midfielder turned down the latest renewal proposal after months of stalled talks that began over the summer, when he rejected the club's opening offer. United returned with improved terms, but Fernandes remains unsatisfied with both the salary and the length of the contract.

Fernandes's current deal expires in June 2027, and from 50 days from now he would be free to negotiate pre-contract terms with foreign clubs. United, however, hold an option to extend his contract by a further 12 months, which would block a free exit if triggered. TEAMtalk reported that the main sticking point is contract length, with INEOS reluctant to commit to a longer-term deal for the 32-year-old because of his age and high wages.S1S2

The contract standoff follows a turbulent spell for the club captain. After Manchester United's 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como, Fernandes publicly questioned former manager Michael Carrick's tactics, and Carrick dropped him to the bench for the full 90 minutes against Bournemouth. Carrick has since been sacked, and Pochettino has agreed terms to replace him, making securing Fernandes's commitment his first major challenge.S1S2

Reports suggest United are unlikely to sell Fernandes this January and would more likely trigger the one-year extension, keeping him at the club before a possible summer sale if he does not agree to an extension. Fernandes, who was named PFA Footballer of the Year after providing 21 assists last season, has scored four goals and provided two assists so far this term. Interest from the Saudi Pro League has been well documented, and other clubs could move in if United do not meet his demands on length and salary.S1S2