Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from Old Trafford to Al-Nassr less than 12 months ago has been the catalyst for many major stars to depart for the Saudi Pro League, where many big names have gone to receive huge pay cheques.

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Ronaldo, meanwhile, appears to be enjoying his time in the Middle East as he is scoring regularly and earning the biggest wage in world football.

Fernandes, Casemiro and Martial have been tipped as the next three to depart to the Gulf, with 90Mins reporting that clubs in the country are seeking a route to signing the former two. Meanwhile, Martial has been on the shortlist of Saudi clubs for some months.

Man Utd transfer stance on trio

Bruno Fernades is a player that Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag will want to retain at Old Trafford. As captain, the Portuguese has pulled the team out of some difficult spots and grabbed the winner against Fulham in the Premier League last weekend.

Casemiro, meanwhile, has not performed to the expected standard after a stunning debut campaign in the Premier League after arriving from Real Madrid in the summer of 2022. Although some doubts have been expressed about his form, his influence in the dressing room remains enormous, yet with a big pay packet, there is a chance he could be deemed surplus to requirements in the summer.

Martial is the player likeliest to move on, having failed to become the striker it was once thought he could be after moving to Old Trafford.

© ProShots – Anthony Martial: heading for a Man Utd exit?

Given the Red Devils’ lack of attacking options, particularly in the centre-forward role, United will likely want to find a replacement who can deputise or support Rasmus Hojlund before they make a definitive decision over the Frenchman.

Meanwhile, this is all playing out as Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group complete a 25% minority buyout of the club, which has the potential to dramatically alter the Man Utd transfer landscape in January and beyond.