This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
Manchester United's pursuit of Bruno Fernandes has gained momentum, with the club willing to include two out-of-favor players in their bid to sign the 25-year-old midfielder from Sporting Lisbon this month.
According to reports, Fernandes, who was previously linked with Tottenham, would be available for around £60 million. The deal is said to be a priority for Manchester United, who are keen on a smooth process.
As part of the package, Manchester United are reportedly willing to offer two players, including Argentina defender Marcos Rojo, who starred for Lisbon before joining United in 2014. However, concerns have been raised about Rojo's salary demands, which could complicate any return to Sporting Lisbon.
Meanwhile, Sporting Lisbon boss Jorge Silas has expressed his concerns about Fernandes' potential departure, describing him as 'the best player in the league' and admitting that it was inevitable he would leave sooner or later.
"He's a huge player. All players like Bruno always have a lot of market," said Silas. "We know that he'll always be a much talked of player and sought by clubs as big as they say. I don't like to think about that beforehand, but I'm starting to think of alternatives within our team if Bruno doesn't stay with us. I hope that doesn't happen. In Portugal, unfortunately, we can't keep the best players for long. Bruno is the best player in the league."
