Now 31, the Portugal international signed for United six years ago and has been widely regarded as the club's most influential figure ever since.

The Manchester United captain recently surpassed 200 goal contributions for the Red Devils, underlining a level of output that has been described as exceptionally consistent at the highest level.

Fernandes claimed the club's Player of the Year award for the fourth time last season and remains central to the side under interim head coach Michael Carrick.

United are currently on an unbeaten Premier League run, with four wins from their previous five matches under Carrick, and Fernandes has played a decisive role in that resurgence.

Despite frequent debate over where United would be without him, Fernandes does not view himself as operating in a league of his own.

He has rejected suggestions that the team are overly reliant on him, even though he has been the club's talisman through both prosperous and difficult campaigns, regularly guiding the side through challenging situations.

"I don't want to hype myself up, but I think that's me," Fernandes told Sky Sports when asked about United fans praising their special player.

"The problem is, people always say that 'where would the team be without me?' It's not something I agree with, but I think it's me, yeah."

His current contract runs until 30 June 2027, with the option of a further year. However, with reported interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, Ineos are expected to assess his situation at the end of the season.

Any decision to sell would be deeply unpopular among supporters, and replacing a player of his productivity and leadership would represent a formidable challenge.

Bernardo Silva misses former Man City team-mate Julian Alvarez