Manchester United have announced the signing of Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes from Sporting CP to call time on the transfer saga of the January window.
The Red Devils have chased Fernandes all month after a failed pursuit of the 25-year-old last summer, and they’ve finally got their man on the penultimate day of the month.
A deal between Man United and Sporting was announced on Wednesday, with Fernandes agreeing personal terms and completing a medical the following day.
Shortly after the midfielder’s agent released a picture of Fernandes wearing a Manchester United tracksuit, the Premier League club officially announced his signing.
Andy Brassell and Lars Sivertsen discuss Man United target Bruno Fernandes
The midfielder, who has signed a five-year deal at Old Trafford, told the club’s official website: “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.
“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.
“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.”
Fernandes’ proposed move to Old Trafford has dragged on all month due to disagreements between United and Sporting over the financial aspects of the deal.
The Red Devils were initially unwilling to pay the £67.7million asking price, especially as the Portuguese outfit were demanding the entire fee up front.
Amid fears the deal had collapsed, United then returned with an offer that matched Sporting’s valuation, though only £46.6m was paid up front with the remainder of the fee dependent on various add-ons.
More follows.
