Manchester United confirm signing of Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United have announced the signing of Bruno Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon, agreeing a five-and-a-half-year contract at Old Trafford.

It is understood the Portuguese midfielder has been a long-term target for United, with the club’s scouting system first registering interest in 2016. The deal is believed to be worth up to £68 million, with various add-ons included in the agreement.

Last season, Fernandes broke the Portuguese goal record for a midfielder, scoring 32 goals. Despite being heavily linked with a move to England in the summer – United and Tottenham both reportedly keen – the 25-year-old instead continued his fine form in the green and white of Sporting Lisbon.

His eight goals and seven assists so far this campaign are the second highest in the Primeira Liga, with only Benfica’s Pizzi having more for combined total of goal involvements. But Fernandes has created 63 chances, which is by far the most of any player in the division; ahead of Pizzi, who is the next below on 45.

“My love of Manchester United really started when I used to watch Cristiano Ronaldo play and ever since then I have been a big fan of this great club,” said Fernandes.

“For me to now play for Manchester United feels incredible, I have worked hard to get to this moment and I can promise the fans that I will give everything for the badge to help bring us more success and trophies.”

The attacking midfielder enjoyed a successful spell in the capital after joining in 2017. In 137 appearances, the Lisbon captain scored 63 goals and contributed 52 assists:

 “I want to thank Sporting for everything they have done for me. It is surreal to hear the nice words that have been said about me from players that used to play for this team.

“A massive thank you to Ole and everyone at Manchester United for the trust they have shown in me and I can’t wait to start to repay that on the pitch.”

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also expressed his delight at the signing:

“We have been tracking Bruno for many months and everyone here has been tremendously impressed with all his attributes and what he will bring to this team. Most importantly he is a terrific human being with a great personality and his leadership qualities are clear for all to see.

“Bruno’s goals and assists stats speak for themselves, he will be a fantastic addition to our team and he will help us push on in the second part of the season. The winter break is coming at a perfect time for us to integrate Bruno into the squad and for him to get to know his team-mates.”

Fernandes could make his Manchester United and Old Trafford bow on Saturday, where they host Wolves.