Bruno Fernandes could make a move to Bayern Munich this summer with the Portugal international said to be frustrated at Old Traffor and Manchester United “willing” to listen to offers. Elsewhere in Wednesday’s Paper Round, Thomas Frank is a “strong contender” to replace Erik ten Hag as United boss, and Arsenal are “leading the race” to sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.
Bayern Munich are considering a bid for Bruno Fernandes and Manchester United may be ready to listen to offers.
That’s according to a report in the Independent which claims the Portugal international is becoming frustrated at Old Trafford.
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The 29-year-old has played consistently well for Erik ten Hag’s side this season despite United facing the prospect of missing out on a European place next term.
“Bayern Munich are looking at a move for Bruno Fernandes this summer and believe they can get him due to increasing frustration at Manchester United,” writes the outlet.
“There is also a feeling that the Old Trafford hierarchy would be willing to do a deal, since they need to sell players in order to meet Profit and Sustainability Rule requirements and kickstart this overhaul.
“Such a move may also be a sign of a potential breakthrough in keeping Thomas Tuchel at the club, since he specifically wanted another creative player this season and the Portuguese fits the profile.
“Bayern want to evolve the personality of their squad while bringing extra depth up front, with Fernandes now an obvious option. At 29, the playmaker has been struck by the sense of drift at Old Trafford and wants to win major trophies in the prime of his career.”
FRANK ‘STRONG CONTENDER’ FOR MAN UTD JOB
Thomas Frank is a “strong contender” to replace Erik ten Hag as Manchester United boss, according to The Telegraph.
Ten Hag is facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford with the team languishing in eighth place in the Premier League table, although they will contest the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
And should the hierarchy decide to dismiss the Dutchman, reports suggest Brentford boss Frank could be in line to replace him.
“Thomas Frank is a strong contender for the Manchester United job should they change manager following the club’s struggles under Erik ten Hag,” the article reads.
“United are yet to make a decision over the future of Ten Hag, who could still win the FA Cup this year, but in the event of a new appointment Frank has admirers at Old Trafford from his work at Brentford over the last six years.
“The Danish coach has an existing relationship with co-owners Ineos and has previously linked up with Sir Dave Brailsford, director of sport at the company, before investment in United by attending his 60th birthday dinner in March alongside Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Roy Hodgson and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.
“It is thought that the Dane would fit into United’s new structure following Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe taking control of football operations.”
ARSENAL ‘LEADING RACE’ FOR GUIMARAES
Arsenal are “leading the race” to sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.
The Brazil international is also said to be attracting the interest of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, but it’s Arsenal who are making a move having “made contact” with his representatives.
“Arsenal have made contact with Bruno Guimaraes’ camp over a stunning transfer for the Newcastle star, according to reports,” The Sun writes.
“Guimaraes’ fine form has seen him attract interest from several sides including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
“But transfer guru Ben Jacobs claims Arsenal are leading the race.
“Thomas Partey could leave this summer after struggling for fitness.
“Mo Elneny is also expected to depart after Jorginho was handed a new one-year deal.
“And Arsenal are now looking to launch a bid for Guimaraes to become [Declan] Rice’s new partner.
“It’s reckoned they have already touched base with the Brazilian’s representatives.
“While Guimaraes’ contract will see a £100million release clause become active for the month of June.
“Even so, the report adds that Newcastle will consider offers of £80m from clubs who have qualified for next season’s Champions League.”
CASEMIRO ATTRACTING SAUDI INTEREST
Numerous clubs in Saudi Arabia are ready to take Casemiro off Manchester United’s hands.
The Red Devils have been on a poor run of form of late, winning just one of their last seven Premier League games, with Casemiro in particular coming in for some sharp criticism.
According to The Sun, the 32-year-old is interested in leaving to the Saudi Pro League.
The article states: “He still has two years to run on a contract worth an eye-watering £350,000-a-week.
“But Fabrizio Romano claims both Casemiro and United could be saved in the summer transfer window.
“He reckons numerous clubs in Saudi Arabia are preparing offers to land the ace from Old Trafford.
“Many have had Casemiro on their shortlist since October.
“And proposals are expected to arrive once the league’s budget has been decided by Saudi chiefs.
“Casemiro could jump at the chance to escape to the Middle East, on possibly an even bigger salary.
“While United will not stand in his way as Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to clear the decks and trim the fat.”