Manchester United are reportedly considering Jobe Bellingham as a long-term replacement for captain Bruno Fernandes, whose future at Old Trafford remains far from certain.

Fernandes fell out with manager Michael Carrick earlier this season, with the Portuguese international dropped for the match against Bournemouth following his comments after United's 4-1 defeat to Como in the UEFA Champions League. Though the pair have since reconciled and Fernandes has reclaimed his starting berth, Atletico Madrid are said to be monitoring the situation, according to Fichajes.

Bellingham emerging as a target

With uncertainty hanging over their talismanic playmaker, United have identified the 21-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder as a potential option in the middle of the park. Fichajes describes the move as a "gamble," but one the club could be willing to take.

Bellingham has flourished at Signal Iduna Park, mirroring the trajectory of his elder brother Jude — whom United famously offered £30 million for when he was a Birmingham City youngster, only for Jude to choose the Bundesliga for his development, as reported by Sky Sports.

Jobe followed a similar path, progressing from Birmingham City to Sunderland before joining Borussia Dortmund at the start of last season. His form has earned him a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the November international window, alongside his brother.

No formal offer yet

Fichajes acknowledges that there is currently no evidence of a formal offer from United, and the report remains speculative at this stage. Transfermarkt values Bellingham at €40 million.

United's next Premier League fixture sees them travel to Liverpool when club football resumes after the international break.