Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed that the club aren’t certain of signing Bruno Fernandes in the January transfer window. The Red Devils had been linked with a move for the Sporting Lisbon star for a number of weeks, but the deal was delayed after the clubs failed to reach an agreement on a transfer fee.
United were very close to confirming the signing of Fernandes last week, and the Portugal international was expected to sign at Sporting Lisbon’s league match against Benfica.
But, Sporting and United failed to agree a transfer fee for the player, which has put the move on hold, Express Sport understands.
The Portuguese club reportedly increased their valuation of Fernandes to £68million at the final hurdle.
United, meanwhile, were only willing to pay £50m up front, with £15m in add-ons.
JUST IN: Man Utd stance on Donny van de Beek transfer amid Bruno Fernandes saga
But, Solskjaer said that now isn’t the time to talk about recruitment.
“For me now, we’ve lost to Liverpool; a team you all say are fantastic and we’ve been in the game until the last kick of the ball.
“Of course, we’re disappointed losing the game. We don’t want to be behind them in the league, but there were signs there we are on the right track.
“Now is not the time to speak about recruitment. We’re looking to Burnley.
“We’re always looking to improve the squad and the club, but now is not the time.”
Fernandes has already agreed personal terms with United, which means the process will be relatively quick after a fee is agreed between the two clubs.
The player has already told his closest friends that he expects to be leaving for United before the end of the transfer window, according to the Daily Record.
The Red Devils have been crying out for a new midfielder this month, after long-term injuries to Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba.
There are also still question marks over the future of Pogba, who is likely to leave Old Trafford during the summer.
Meanwhile, Solskjaer is also interested in a move for Ajax midfielder Donny van der Beek.
The Dutch star was on United’s shortlist this month, but he’s expected to complete a move to Real Madrid instead.
United were eyeing a move for Lille star Boubakary Soumare as a long-term replacement for Nemanja Matic.
But, the youngster confirmed plans to stay at the Ligue 1 club until at least the end of the season.
