Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has this evening assured that his side will not part with in-demand Bruno Fernandes on the cheap.
Sporting standout
24-year-old Fernandes has emerged as one of Portuguese football’s star performers over the last couple of seasons.
The former Udinese and Sampdoria man possesses all of the key traits of a modern attacking midfielder, combining a keen eye for goal, set-piece prowess, creative flair and penchant for the spectacular.
And Fernandes’ talents allowed the 13-time capped international to directly contribute to a staggering number of goals this past season.
Across all competitions, the Sporting star racked up 29 goals and 17 assists.
LISBON, PORTUGAL – APRIL 27: Bruno Fernandes of Sporting CP reaction after missing a goal opportunity during the Liga NOS match between Sporting CP and Vitoria SC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on April 27, 2019 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Premier League links
As a result, it has since come as little surprise to see a whole host of top European clubs named as keen suitors of Fernandes.
The likes of Manchester City, Tottenham and Manchester United have all been linked with the midfielder of late, with the Red Devils thought to be particularly keen.
Bit of Bruno Fernandes detail. His agent, Miguel Pinho, met with #THFC y’day. Fernandes & Lo Celso Spurs’ midfield targets. #MUFC, who met Pinho 2 months ago, asked him in past fortnight for some more time as they focus first on signing a RB (Wan-Bissaka) https://t.co/s2XCpyzQYX
— James Ducker (@TelegraphDucker) June 20, 2019
‘For that, he doesn’t leave’
As such, speaking in an interview with RTP earlier today, Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas was inevitably questioned on the future of his side’s star man.
After pleading ignorance regarding just how many clubs are eyeing Fernandes’ signature, though, Varandas went on to confirm that the 62 million Euro fee touted in the media will not be enough to coax the 24-year-old away from the José Alvalade Stadium:
‘I don’t know if there are many or if there are few [interested clubs].’
‘What I know, a lot has been spoken of values, coming to the press, €55m, €62m… for that he doesn’t leave, for sure.’
‘If Bruno Fernandes leaves, players with quality will come. But if Bruno leaves.’
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