Manchester United reignite interest in long-term £50m-rated target: Just what Ole needs?

Manchester United could be closing in on their first deal of the winter transfer window as they look to sign Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon. Fernandes has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for a long time but the deal could finally materialise in this window.

As per Daily Mail, United have made a bid of £50 million and added bonuses as both clubs’ chiefs have had discussions. The Portuguese club also want one United player to go in the other direction to help them strengthen their squad.

Bruno Fernandes has been in terrific form over the last few seasons since joining Sporting in 2017. The midfielder moved to the club from Sampdoria and has scored 61 goals and 51 assists in 133 appearances. He signed a new deal last year, which will see his contract expire in 2023.

Bruno Fernandes: The player Ole needs?

Manchester United need quite a few additions to the squad, especially in midfield and defence, which has looked very weak this season. United have yet to replace Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini, who were allowed to leave in the last two transfer windows.

Paul Pogba’s absence due to injury and now Scott McTominay’s time on the treatment table has seen United’s options in midfield dwindle. The Red Devils also have a problem in creating chances against stubborn defences as their primary approach revolves around hitting teams on the counter. This is where a player like Bruno Fernandes could make a world of difference.

The Portuguese international is a player who likes to play passes in behind the defence and also move forward with his strong dribbling. He is a player who can shoot from distance, make good runs into the box, and is also good from set-pieces.

Bruno Fernandes is a player who takes the initiative and is said to be a strong leader in the dressing room, which is something that United have lacked over the last few seasons.

Fernandes could play in the No. 10 role or in a central midfield role, which are two areas that United have lacked quality. He would be a much better option than Andreas Pereira, Jesse Lingard, or Juan Mata in the No. 10 role, while he could also be a good option in a midfield three thus making this a deal, which if possible, should be completed by United as soon as possible.