Thomas Tuchel has reportedly told Bayern Munich that he wants the club to attempt to sign Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes this summer if he is to sign a new contract at Allianz Arena.
Earlier this year, it was announced that Tuchel would be standing down as Bayern manager this summer, and the German has recently been linked with the Man United job, which could become vacant at the end of the campaign, with the club preparing to make a decision on Erik ten Hag's future.
However, it is understood that Tuchel could now undergo a U-turn and sign a new deal at Bayern, who have struggled in their search to replace the 50-year-old.
According to The Independent, Tuchel has told the Munich giants that he wants them to target Fernandes this summer, while he is also demanding that a new number six is signed before he pens a new deal.
Fulham's Joao Palhinha was moments away from moving to Bayern last summer, and the experienced head coach is said to be calling for a defensive midfielder and a playmaker to arrive.
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Tuchel calls on Bayern to move for Fernandes
Bayern have failed to win this season's Bundesliga title, but they did progress to the semi-finals of the Champions League and will allegedly 'have a big budget' for the summer market.
Fernandes made his return from injury on Wednesday night, starring in Man United's 3-2 home success over Newcastle United in the Premier League.
The Portugal international has scored 15 goals and registered 12 assists in 46 appearances for the 20-time English champions in all competitions this season.
Meanwhile, he has managed 79 goals and 65 assists in 231 matches for Man United since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020.
Bayern are thought to be confident of convincing Fernandes to move to Allianz Arena, but it has been reported that the attacker will remain at Man United this summer following a meeting with club bosses.
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Fernandes has expressed a desire to stay at Man United
Following Wednesday's clash with Newcastle, Fernandes insisted that he will remain at Man United until the club decide to move him on.
"I will be here until when the club wants me and the club wants me to be a part of the future," he told Sky Sports News. "If for some reason they don't want me, then I will go."
Ten Hag then said in his post-match press conference that Man United are determined to keep hold of Fernandes this summer.
However, a departure for the Portuguese cannot be completely ruled out, as Man United will have to make some sales this summer in order to bring in new players.
The Red Devils are also facing the possibility of missing out on European football altogether next season, but Bayern would be able to offer Fernandes Champions League action in 2024-25.
Matt Law
