Michael Carrick has made his first Man United mistake as Bruno Fernandes contract update revealed

Michael Carrick could be making a costly mistake not handing Bruno Fernandes a new Man United contract this summer.

 The Mirror report that Man United have “shelved” talks with Bruno Fernandes over a new contract, and that discussions over a new deal with instead take place later in the year.

That is despite Fernandes’ current deal at Man United expiring next summer, and the possibility that the 31-year-old could sign a pre-contract agreement with another club in January.

Fernandes was heavily pursued by clubs in Saudi last summer, and there is a possibility that they could reignite their interest, and make him one of the highest paid players in the world.

Man United can not afford to let Fernandes leave, as his stats from the 2025-26 season showed he is an invaluable member of Carrick’s squad.

Man United must do all they can to keep Bruno Fernandes

Fernandes was named the Football Writers’ Association Football of the Year, and won the Premier League’s Player of the Season award for his incredible campaign.

The Man United captain set a new record for most assists in a Premier League season, as he showed Carrick why he can’t afford to leave him out of the starting line-up.

Former chief scout at Old Trafford Mick Brown previously told Football Insider that Man United were to accelerate contract talks with Fernandes, but that is now not the case.

Fernandes started every game under Carrick, and he is expected to play another major role for the club next season on their return to the Champions League.

Man United already active in the transfer market

Fernandes is the leading figure on the pitch at Man United, and there has been a heavy burden on him over recent seasons.

Carrick could change that this summer with his transfer business, as the Red Devils look to strengthen their squad after securing a place in the Champions League.

Atalanta midfielder Ederson already looks to be signing for Man United after a £35million deal was agreed, and more business is expected to happen.

Rafael Leao could add more threat in attack, whilst West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes is also on their radar.

No matter what Man United do though, tying Fernandes down to a new contract would be their best deal of the summer.