Ian Wright: I’d Snap Up Man United’s Star for Arsenal ‘Tomorrow’

Ian Wright urges Arsenal to sign Bruno Fernandes after criticising Manchester United’s handling of their captain

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has made a bold transfer claim, insisting he would sign Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes for Arsenal “tomorrow” if given the chance. Speaking on The Overlap podcast, Wright praised the Portuguese midfielder’s quality while criticising United’s treatment of one of their most influential players.

Wright’s comments come amid growing speculation surrounding Fernandes’ future after the midfielder revealed United received lucrative interest from the Saudi Pro League during the summer.

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Fernandes recently disclosed that Manchester United received offers of up to £100 million from Saudi clubs but left the decision over his future largely in his hands. While the 31-year-old ultimately chose to stay, he admitted the club’s stance left him feeling undervalued.

“I didn’t want to go,” Fernandes explained, citing family reasons and loyalty to United. However, he revealed the club told him it was “up to you if you want to leave,” rather than firmly shutting down the interest.

That response did not sit well with Wright.

The former Arsenal striker described the episode as another example of Manchester United’s indecision, arguing that a club should protect and reassure a player of Fernandes’ importance.

“When you look at Bruno’s quotes, it comes back to Man United being indecisive,” Wright said. “Someone comes in for Bruno Fernandes and you shut that down. He didn’t want to go.”

Wright added that Fernandes has effectively carried United through difficult periods and deserved stronger backing from the club hierarchy.

“That’s not what you want to hear when you’re the person who has basically held the club up by yourself,” he continued.

“I would take him tomorrow” – Wright backs Arsenal move

Wright made his stance crystal clear, claiming Fernandes would be a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal project.

“You want the club to say, ‘you’re not going nowhere, you’re a massive part of this’. Manchester United didn’t do that,” Wright said. “What is that saying to him? I would take him tomorrow.”

The Arsenal icon believes Fernandes’ leadership, work rate, and output would elevate an already strong Arsenal midfield.

Fernandes’ quality still shining despite United struggles

Despite Manchester United’s inconsistency, Fernandes has remained a standout performer. His season has included moments of brilliance, such as a stunning free-kick in a dramatic 4-4 draw with Bournemouth.

With his contract running until 2027, Fernandes remains tied to Old Trafford, but reports suggest there is growing belief inside the club that this could be his final campaign if dissatisfaction continues.

Arsenal are currently pushing for the Premier League title, with Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice forming the spine of Arteta’s midfield. However, Wright’s comments underline the appeal of adding a proven, high-output playmaker.

Since joining United in 2020, Fernandes has recorded over 80 goals and assists in the Premier League alone, offering creativity, goal threat, and big-game mentality — qualities Arsenal value highly.

Wright has long admired Fernandes, previously stating that without him, United “would be in the relegation places.”

With the January transfer window approaching, Fernandes’ candid comments have only intensified speculation around his future. United’s new manager Ruben Amorim faces the challenge of restoring stability, but uncertainty around key players remains.

For Arsenal fans, Wright’s endorsement presents a fascinating “what if” scenario — one that would see a Manchester United talisman cross the divide to north London.

Whether it ever happens is another matter, but Wright’s view is emphatic: Bruno Fernandes deserves to play for a club that values him without hesitation.

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