MANCHESTER UNITED are now including bonuses based on qualifying for the Champions League in their deal for Bruno Fernandes, it has been claimed.
But Sporting Lisbon have reportedly rejected them out of hand and called them not “realistic”.
According to prominent sports journalist Duncan Castles on the Transfer Window podcast, Sporting feel there is a deal there to be made and they could sell the player before Friday’s deadline.
However, they will not accept any fee based on Champion League qualification.
United currently sit fifth in the Premier League just six points behind fourth place Chelsea.
It is thought United want to pay an initial 46million up front with a further 12m in potential add-ons for the 25-year-old.
But the Portuguese club feel they can get a larger fee in the summer for Fernandes after what the Red Devils paid for Aaron Wan-Bissaka (50million) and Harry Maguire (85m).
If it is not done by Thursday lunchtime, he will not be able to play in the Red Devils’ game against Wolves on Saturday.
But United’s hopes of completing the deal were given a boost last night as Sporting Lisbon admitted fear they might lose their star man.
The 25-year-old playmaker captained his side in their 1-0 win at home Maritimo.
And afterwards, Sporting boss Silas admitted that United could finally match or get close to the 68million asking price for their prized asset.
When asked about keeping Fernandes, Silas said: “I hope so, but I don’t know. Bruno is a special player.
“I can’t confirm if it was his last game. I would like Bruno to stay and I wish I could count on him until the end of the season, but I can’t say whether he stays or not.”
