Pundit Noel Whelan has labelled a pending new deal for Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes as ‘incredible’, as per Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Romano’s reveal

The Red Devils appear to be making a head start on their summer business and have already spoken with Erik ten Hag over the possibility of replacing Ralf Rangnick as manager.

A number of United players are also out of contract at the end of June, including club-record signing Paul Pogba.

Fernandes’ contract doesn’t expire until 2025, although Fabrizio Romano has revealed that there has been a ‘breakthrough’ in talks and a new five-year agreement has been ‘accepted’ by the 27-year-old.

The Latest: Whelan reacts to Fernandes latest

Whelan, who previously contributed for BBC Radio Leeds, was asked by Football Insider if a new deal for Fernandes was a coup.

This is what he had to say in reply, describing the attacking midfielder as a ‘huge player’ and labelling a pending new deal as ‘incredible’:

“Yeah, that’s a really important bit of business.

“He’s been a huge player for them since he’s come in, and his goal and assist record has proved that as well.

“He’s such a talented player, and they really need him in that side. Man United need that creativity and that goal threat from midfield.

“No, it hasn’t been the best season for him – but it’s been a very poor season from everyone at Old Trafford.

“To get him tied down, knowing they probably won’t be in the Champions League next season – that’s incredible.”

The Verdict: Smart move by Man United

Fernandes has contributed to 23 goals in 37 games this season, so a new and improved deal appears to be a shrewd decision by the club as they look to build for the future under a new manager.

He has also been the club’s best-rated performer in the Premier League among players who have made two or more appearances and has made more key passes per game than any other United player, as per WhoScored, so keeping your best players happy is obviously ideal.

You’d also expect that Fernandes, who is the Red Devils' ninth-best paid player at the moment on £180,000 per week, may well be in line for a pay rise, with all eyes now on an official announcement from the club.

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