Man Utd 'hunting Bruno Fernandes replacement' to play alongside Manuel Ugarte

Manchester United are reportedly in the market for a replacement for Bruno Fernandes. The midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer, with several big money offers arriving from Saudi Arabia.

However, so far, the Red Devils' skipper has snubbed the approaches in favour of remaining in Europe and competing at the very highest level as he prepares for next year's World Cup with Portugal. Nevertheless, Al Hilal are said to be waiting in the wings with a final approach - but they may be forced to wait 12 months for a move to come to fruition.

United aren't particularly prepared for Fernandes' departure, both in the short and long term, and this has been a key focus for them this summer. According to The Athletic, they are scouring the market for potential options who can provide an alternative option to their skipper, and ultimately replace him when the time comes.

They want to bring in a player who is capable of slotting into Ruben Amorim's midfield pivot alongside either Casemiro or Manuel Ugarte and making an instant impact at Old Trafford. Their search has been extensive, with only one target identified so far.

Brighton star Carlos Baleba was shortlisted as United's top target for the role, but his price tag - in excess of £100million - was proven too pricey to pursue a move this summer. Although a different profile to Fernandes, the Cameroon international has thrived as a No. 8 for the Seagulls, attracting interest from around Europe.

Kobbie Mainoo was previously viewed as being the ideal midfielder for the club to build around after he broke through the ranks under Erik ten Hag. But the England international no longer appears to have a future at the Theatre of Dreams, though United are not actively looking to sell him at this stage.

Mainoo has not played in either of the Red Devils' two Premier League clashes so far this season and is looking to explore his options. Amorim does not feel that the academy graduate has the attributes to play in his pivot, though Mainoo has not suited playing as a makeshift striker of No. 10 when deployed in both roles.

If Mainoo is moved on, United will be expected to amp up their pursuit of a midfielder to ensure there is suitable cover for Fernandes and not leave their manager short of options in those central areas.