Sporting Lisbon have issued a transfer ultimatum to Manchester United, warning that their chances of signing Bruno Fernandes are stronger this month than in the summer, when other clubs may enter the race. The Premier League side have been hit by injuries to midfielders Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba, prompting renewed interest in the Portuguese playmaker.
United have reportedly bid £55 million for Fernandes, but Sporting are holding out for around £68 million for their captain. Negotiations are ongoing, and it is expected that a deal will be finalised before the January window closes, though some financial details remain to be resolved.
Sporting, who are under financial pressure to sell, have cautioned United that this opportunity may not be available in the summer if Fernandes continues to impress. Former United defender Gary Neville said the club need at least two signings this window, citing injuries to Pogba, McTominay, and Marcus Rashford.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer acknowledged the injury crisis and indicated that short-term loan deals could be an option. 'It might be that we look at some short-term deals to take us through to the summer,' he said. 'If the right one's there, we can buy. If there are loans available, it might be possible.'
