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Sir Jim Ratcliffe 'wants to build Manchester United team around Bruno Fernandes'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 12 November 2023

Ratcliffe 'wants to build Man United team around Fernandes'

Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to build a new-look Manchester United team around Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes, according to a report.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe will reportedly refuse to entertain any offers for Bruno Fernandes, viewing the Portugal international as central to Manchester United's hopes of becoming a successful side once again.

Fernandes's future has recently been the subject of speculation, with teams from Saudi Arabia believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation at Old Trafford.

The 29-year-old has another three years left to run on his contract, though, with the option of a further 12 months, while he was made permanent club captain over the summer.

Fernandes has proven to be an inspirational signing for the Red Devils since arriving from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020, scoring 68 goals and registering 57 assists in 202 appearances in all competitions.

The attacker has four goals and three assists in 17 outings this term, and he again played the full 90 minutes against Luton Town in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

Luton Town's Tom Lockyer in action with Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes on November 11, 2023 © Reuters

According to Football Insider, Ratcliffe, who is preparing to purchase 25% of Man United, has no intention of allowing Fernandes to leave amid interest from Saudi Arabia.

Ratcliffe is expected to take over the football department at Old Trafford when his arrival is confirmed, with a deal set to be announced over the international break.

The founder and owner of INEOS allegedly views Fernandes as central to the team's plans, with the British billionaire believing that the side should be built around the Portuguese.

Despite Man United's issues this term, Fernandes allegedly has no desire to seek pastures new at this stage of his career, with the playmaker remaining fully committed to the Manchester club.

Ineos chairman Jim Ratcliffe is pictured at Old Trafford in Manchester, Britain, March 17, 2023 © Reuters

Ratcliffe is reportedly planning to complete a full takeover of Man United in the future, although it is unclear how long that could take due to the complex nature of the deal.

The businessman is believed to be considering removing CEO Richard Arnold, football director John Murtough and director of football operations David Harrison from their positions.

Ratcliffe allegedly wants to bring in his own team, while he is also planning to overhaul the scouting department due to what he views to be failures in terms of recent signings.

The chemical engineer reportedly wants to ask Man United how they have spent £1.4bn in the transfer market over the last 10 years without securing any major success.

However, despite the planned changes, it is understood that Erik ten Hag's position as head coach remains safe, with the team securing a much-needed 1-0 win over Luton ahead of the international break.