Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United transfer target may not move during January window, says Jorge Mendes
United yet to agree fee with Sporting for midfielder
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Jorge Mendes does not know whether Manchester United will sign Bruno Fernandes, though he expects Sporting midfielder to secure a transfer this year.
United remain in negotiations with Sporting for Fernandes though are yet to settle on an agreed transfer fee, with the Primeira Liga club demanding €80m (£68m).
Super-agent Mendes is involved in the Fernandes negotiations, which have seen Sporting propose that United pay €65m up front with a further €15m in add-ons.
United are reluctant to spend that much and value Fernandes closer to an initial €50m (£42m), given that Tottenham Hotspur touted Fernandes as a €45m prospect last summer.
A compromise remains possible before the close of the winter transfer window on 31 January but talks will break down if one is not found.
When asked on Wednesday whether Fernandes would join United this month, Mendes told BBC Sport that he was unsure.
“If he doesn’t leave now, he will leave for sure in the summer because Sporting have already spoken with other clubs,” Mendes added.
“Something will happen but I am not sure if now or at the end of the season.”
Little is understood to have changed in negotiations for Fernandes since United knocked back Sporting’s €80m asking price at the weekend, though talks continue.
Mendes was attending a meeting of the Association of Football Agents on Wednesday in north London, with fellow agents Mino Raiola and Jonathan Barnett in attendance.
Many of world football’s top agents are hoping to fight plans by world governing body Fifa to limit the amount intermediaries can earn from facilitating transfers.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments