Manchester United are considering a summer move for Sporting Lisbon’s goal-scoring midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has advised Ed Woodward that at least one high class addition is needed in midfield after freeing up space with the sale of Marouane Fellaini in January.
Fernandes has been identified as a target capable of adding goals, creativity and energy to an area of Man Utd’s squad that looks limited beyond Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic and Ander Herrera.
That trio have been pivotal to the club’s revival under Solskjaer, but the lack of depth beyond them is considered an issue going forward.
Sporting captain Fernandes is already on the radar of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
He has established a reputation as a free kick and long-range goal-scoring specialist.
And the 24-year-old’s 24 goals and 14 assists this season have caught United’s attention ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer at Old Trafford.
Appearances Goals Assists Sporting Lisbon 40 20 11 Portugal 1 (2) 0 0 Total 41 20 11Read More
Caretaker Solskjaer has not yet been confirmed as the club’s next permanent manager, but he is advising Woodward on transfer strategy.
The need for additions in central defence, midfield and attack have all been identified.
Kalidou Koulibaly is United’s preferred choice at centre back, while they are prepared to pay in excess of £80m for Jadon Sancho .
As reported by Standard Sport, United have cooled interest in Barcelona’s Ivan Rakitic , but still intend to strengthen in midfield with doubts hanging over several players’ futures.
Juan Mata is still to sign a new contract – and it remains to be seen if he is in Solskjaer’s long-term plans.
Herrera is expected to extend his deal – but, like Mata, is a free agent in the summer.
Andreas Pereira has had a 12-month option on his contract triggered – but United know the next window will be their last chance to cash in on the Brazilian if they don’t intend to tie him down to a longer deal.
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Meanwhile, Fred – a £52m signing last summer – has endured a miserable first season in England, which also raises doubts about his future.