Bruno Fernandes at odds with United, could force an exit: AC Milan watch, Amorim hopes

The former Novara and Udinese player said: "At this club, there is too much focus on what has been done, but we are not those people and we must look to the future." Carrick disagreed: "I disagree. We are a long way from those levels, but last year United showed that they can still be great."

Bruno Fernandes first emerged as an intriguing possibility in England in the summer, but the Portuguese player's price remains high: his contract includes a clause for foreign clubs worth almost €65 million. United can also extend his deal by a further season even if they fail to agree a new one. Yet the rift with the club could lead the player to force the issue and leave as early as January.

In addition to a possible transfer fee, Milan would have to contend with the Portuguese player's hefty €10.2 million net annual salary, which is beyond the club's reach. Both the player and Milan would need to make an effort to find a solution. An attacking midfielder of undoubted quality, he can drop deeper to build attacks or push further forward to create chances for his team-mates and himself. In Rúben Amorim's 3-4-2-1, he could play close to goal.

Bruno Fernandes' contract with the club runs until 30 June 2027, but talks over an extension have long been at a standstill. The club appears intent on triggering its option to extend his deal unilaterally by a year, solely to avoid losing him for nothing and to make money from his departure. Fernandes came close to a transfer in the summer before deciding to stay and reject lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.