Bruno Fernandes: Man Utd transfer in 'severe doubt' says pundit
Manchester United are concerned that if they match Sporting’s valuation for Bruno Fernandes, other clubs will play hardball in the future when it comes to signing targets. The Old Trafford hierarchy are therefore taking their time to decide whether they pay what they consider to be over the odds for the midfielder.
Sporting are asking for a £60million payment upfront, with add-ons to be included in addition.
However according to the Evening Standard, United are concerned that if they agree to pay that figure, it then sets a precedent for other clubs in the future to play hardball.
The reports states that United are worried about the impact it could have on their long-term transfer plans, with the club determined to land Jadon Sancho and James Maddison.
Moves for the England duo will both have to wait until the summer though, with clubs unlikely to offload their best players mid-season.
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United are in need of an attacking midfielder and Maddison remains their preference.
Yet if United were to sign Fernandes, it could have an impact on their plans for the Leicester man.
According to former United striker Louis Saha, the Red Devils have to go all out for Maddison.
“I am a big fan of James Maddison,” Saha told bonuscodebets.
Man Utd have made James Maddison a top transfer target (Image: GETTY)
“He has great potential and has been performing very well this season.
“He has good experience in the Premier League now and for him to come to Manchester United would be a big step up for him that he would be able to manage.
“I would be more confident of his future if Maddison came to United, he has been showing some great things.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is understood to want to bring in at least one midfielder this month.
Man Utd are keen to pursue a transfer deal for Jadon Sancho (Image: GETTY)
They remain hopeful that they can land Fernandes, while they are also working on a loan deal.
Marcos Llorente could be brought in from Atletico Madrid until the end of the season, to bolster midfield options.