This morning, we covered what Portuguese sports newspapers were saying about Manchester United and Bruno Fernandes. They all reported that Sporting stand firm in the negotiations, not changing their demands for the midfielder.
But it turns out there’s now an update from outlet Plataforma, who claims to have some exclusive information on how the talks stand.
They say the clubs were ‘very far’ from an agreement and the transfer was indeed about to collapse. However, there’s been an approach from both sides.
It’s claimed that Sporting have always been demanding €70m, which could be €60m plus €10m in bonuses, and Manchester United were only offering €50m plus €10m in bonuses.
Plataforma say that with both clubs refusing to give in, the deal was very close to being cancelled. But Manchester United got back in touch with Sporting showing they could improve their offer, as long as the Portuguese side could lower their demands.
A big reason why the Red Devils are making another attempt would be the injury to Marcus Rashford. His absence for the coming months has convinced the club that Bruno Fernandes’ arrival is more crucial.
Now the deal ‘should be done’ for €55m plus bonuses this time, the report says.
The story’s writer, Gonçalo Lopes, is well known among Manchester United fans for having reported the club’s attempts to sign the likes of Nicolas Gaitan and Ezequiel Garay a few years ago.
These claims are not being carried by any of the Portuguese outlets who have been leading the story.
