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Tony Cascarino feels Manchester United should not look to offer Bruno Fernandes a bumper new deal until he sorts out his on-field behaviour.

Fernandes, 27, joined the Red Devils in January 2020, with United paying Sporting a fee worth in the region of £67m. And it seemed money well spent as the Portugal international bagged 12 goals from 22 appearances in the second half of 2019-2020. The ex-Sampdoria star then upped his game even further last season, with 28 goals in all competitions amid commanding displays.

However, it has been a different story this season after Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival. Fernandes’ compatriot is always going to take top billing wherever he plays.

And that has been the case this term. Fernandes has not been the same player, with just nine goals from 37 outings to date.

And there has been a marked change in his attitude during games. The talented forward has been seen remonstrating with team-mates after a misplaced pass or poor passage of play.

It has not gone unnoticed by pundits, with ex-United defender Paul Parker having a dig back in January on the Talk of the Devils podcast.

Reports this week suggested the north-west giants are set to offer him a new lengthy deal. But Cascarino has questioned the wisdom of extending his contract.

“Very strange set of circumstances when you’re offering someone with three years to go on their contract a new five-year deal,” he told talkSPORT. “The opening game of the season when he got a hat-trick, and you thought ‘wow this is going to be some season for United’, you felt that early doors.

“He frustrates me because he’s a talent but he’s always waving his arms around. It feels like he’s complaining and moaning about his team all the time during a game.”

Fernandes urged to rediscover touch

There was no questioning Fernandes’ skill level or application prior to Ronaldo’s return. In addition to his goals, the former Udinese ace provided 25 assists at the Theatre of Dreams.

But it has been a struggle in 2021-2022. Cascarino feels there is nothing wrong with showing passion on the pitch. But it must be conducted in the right manner.

And the former Republic of Ireland star wants Fernandes to forget the histrionics and just do what he does best.

“Don’t get me wrong, Roy Keane did that, would be having a go at you, but he didn’t wave his arms around, but he’d have a go,” he added.

“I understand that, I wouldn’t be worried about a team-mate having a go at me, but I’d be getting very annoyed if the player turns his back on the play, is waving his arms and getting embroiled in other problems while the game’s going on.

“He’s been doing it. I don’t think they should offer him a new deal yet. If he gets to the stage where he’s playing like the Bruno Fernandes like he did when he first arrived at the club over the next year, then yeah, new contract, but not now.”

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