Report: Bruno Fernandes Linked to Manchester United Transfer for £60M

Sporting CP playmaker Bruno Fernandes is reportedly on the verge of joining Manchester United for £60 million.

Journalist Nicolo Schira reported that the two sides are in negotiations over the move:

According to Portuguese outlet Record (h/t MailOnline's Joe Strange), the most important terms of the deal are "already negotiated and understood" following talks between United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and Sporting President Frederico Varandas.

Strange added that Portuguese outlet A Bola noted the move is "imminent," and James Ducker of the Telegraph reported "Fernandes has informed Sporting Lisbon he would like to join Manchester United this month if a deal can be struck between the clubs."

The Red Devils have not made an official bid for Fernandes, but it's said they will do so this week and could include Marcos Rojo in the deal. The defender joined United from Sporting in 2014.

Marca's Chris Winterburn highlighted Rojo's wages as a potentially significant stumbling block to his return to Sporting, so another player could be included instead:

Joel Pereira has experience in Portuguese football, having spent time at Belenenses and Vitoria Setubal on loan during his time at Old Trafford.

Whomever they include, though, it's in United's interests to wrap up a deal.

Bleacher Report's Rob Blanchette believes Fernandes be a superb fit at United given what he could bring to their midfield:

United are desperate for goals and creativity from the centre of the park. Paul Pogba is their only player who can do so regularly, but injuries have kept him out for all but eight games this campaign.

Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata, Andreas Pereira, Fred, Scott McTominay and Nemanja Matic have contributed a combined total of six goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season.

Fernandes has 15 and 13, respectively, for Sporting this season and 63 and 51 in 134 games overall.