Manchester United have reportedly introduced a wage cap of £200,000 a week to prevent players from earning ‘significantly more’ than their teammates.
The decision comes after Cristiano Ronaldo, who was earning £500,000 a week, terminated his contract with the club after causing controversy behind the scenes and in the public eye.
According to the Daily Mail, the Dutchman, together with CEO Richard Arnold, has decided to take the next step in avoiding a ‘locker room jealousy culture’ by introducing a wage ceiling.
Several players will be affected by the new rule, with goalkeeper David de Gea being hit first immediately.
Goalkeeper David de Gea will be the first to be affected, as the Spaniard earns £375,000 a week.
Senior players such as Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Casemiro and now Fernandes are all in the same wage bracket (£180,000 to £200,000 a week), with penalties if they fail to qualify for the Champions League. The idea is to get more players to pay at that level rather than spending £500,000 a week on individual superstars.
Marcus Rashford will also be heavily affected by the deal as European clubs are all eyeing the England international. United recently activated a one-year extension clause in his contract, meaning his current tenure will expire in 2024. Although there are no guarantees that he will sign a new contract and Paris Saint-Germain are desperate for his services.