Romano post-Villa update: Man Utd want record-breaking midfielder in their squad next season if they qualify for UCL

Manchester United have made retaining captain Bruno Fernandes a top priority for the 2026-27 campaign, with Champions League qualification poised to heighten that resolve, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The Red Devils strengthened their top-four credentials with Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa, a result that leaves Erik ten Hag’s side well placed to secure a return to Europe’s premier club competition. Romano reports that United’s hierarchy view UCL football as a pivotal factor in convincing the 31-year-old playmaker to shelve any thoughts of an exit and instead spearhead the club’s midfield for at least another season.

Fernandes’ future at Old Trafford had been the subject of speculation in recent months, with suggestions the Portugal international was weighing up a move after five-and-a-half trophy-laden years. A host of elite clubs would queue for his signature should he become available; the midfielder remains, in Romano’s words, “head and shoulders above the rest” for creativity and consistency.

United had previously contemplated cashing in while Fernandes’ market value remains high—his contract expires in 2027, although the club hold a one-year extension option. Yet a string of influential displays this term has persuaded decision-makers to build around their skipper rather than entertain offers.

The Portuguese set a new club record on Sunday, registering his 16th Premier League assist of the season to eclipse David Beckham’s 24-year benchmark of 15. Freed from sole scoring responsibility by summer attacking arrivals Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha, Fernandes has flourished as chief creator while still chipping in eight league goals of his own.

United are now laying the groundwork for a long-term project with Fernandes at its core, irrespective of who occupies the dugout beyond the current campaign. Champions League qualification, increasingly likely after the Villa Park triumph, would provide both the financial muscle and continental appeal to reinforce the club’s determination to keep their record-breaking midfielder in Manchester.