Eberechi Eze predicted to make Manchester United move as Bruno Fernandes exit gains momentum 4j4m1h

Bruno Fernandes is being linked with a move away from Manchester United this summer, and we’ve asked AI software to predict who his replacement could be if he does depart.

Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes is being linked with a £100m move to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal this summer, with his future up in the air off the back of the Red Devils’ dreadful 2024-25 season.

According to reports, the 30-year-old’s agent has been in Riyadh to conduct talks with Al-Za’eem representatives.

It is understood that Ruben Amorim and United want the midfielder to remain at Old Trafford next season and would only consider selling the player if he communicates to the club that he wishes to depart.

Ruben Neves, Fernandes’ Portugal teammate, has leave the club if United receive a fee they cannot turn down.

With question marks over his future in Manchester, we’ve asked AI software to predict his replacement for next season and beyond. The software has provided us with a top five, with reasonings for each potential transfer.

AI Predicts Bruno Fernandes’ Manchester United Replacement 5j6b4p

1. Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) j2h2c

• Why it could happen: Eze is a proven Premier League creator and dribbler, capable of breaking defensive lines with skill and vision. His direct style and work ethic fit well with Amorim’s attacking fluidity. He’s comfortable operating as the main creative hub and adds goal threat from midfield.

• Why it might not: Crystal Palace’s asking price (£70–80m) is steep, and top rivals are also keen, which may push negotiations into a bidding war.

2. Álex Baena (Villarreal) 684b14

• Why it could happen: Baena led La Liga midfielders in chances created in 2024–25. His technical ability, intelligent positioning, and set-piece excellence make him a highly effective creator. The €60m release clause is a reasonable investment for a young talent with scope to grow in the Premier League.

• Why it might not: The physical demands and pace of the Premier League could require a period of adaptation.

3. Pedro Goncalves (Sporting ) 5i1l3w

• Why it could happen: A tactical extension of Amorim’s style, Gonçalves brings pressing intensity, goal threat, and creativity. Familiarity with the coach and the system would ease his transition, making him a low-risk choice for United’s midfield creativity.

• Why it might not: He has yet to prove himself outside Portugal’s league, raising questions about his consistency at a higher competitive level.

4. Ángel Gomes (Lille) 515q3x

• Why it could happen: Gomes is a technically gifted, versatile midfielder with excellent game intelligence. His adaptability to multiple midfield roles and connection to United’s academy make him a smart, long-term investment who can develop into a key creative player.

• Why it might not: Gomes is still developing and may not yet have the consistency or star quality expected for a Fernandes replacement.

5. Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) 3y6a3g

• Why it could happen: Mbeumo offers pace, creativity, and goal threat from wide or attacking midfield positions. Comfortable cutting inside to create or score, he’s shown his ability to operate in the Premier League’s physical and tactical environment. His versatility could allow United to deploy him as a wide No. 10 or an inside-forward, providing fresh attacking dynamics. Brentford’s reasonable valuation (~£40–50m) makes him an accessible target.

• Why it might not: Primarily a winger/forward, Mbeumo is less of a traditional central playmaker and would require tactical adaptation to fill Fernandes’ exact role.

Summary: 4c2g2w

• Most Premier League-ready: Eberechi Eze

• Most tactically seamless: Pedro Gonçalves

• Best creator abroad: Álex Baena

• Smart sentimental return: Ángel Gomes

• Versatile, pacey creator/goal threat: Bryan Mbeumo