MANCHESTER UNITED and Tottenham target Bruno Fernandes has dealt both clubs a blow by signing a new contract with Sporting Lisbon.
The midfielder, 25, has hit nine goals this season for club and country after he was hotly tipped for a switch to the Premier League over the summer.
The Portugal international and club captain will remain at the Alvalade until 2023, unless clubs want to pay £85million for his services.
Tottenham came closest over the summer to meeting the then £65m release clause, while Manchester United backed out of any deal because it was too complicated.
Many, including Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, praised Fernandes for his quality — but an offer never came in that was accepted.
Fernandes said: “It’s a proud moment for me and a recognition of my work, it’s a sign that I’m doing things well.
“I have been trying my best to do what is best for the club.
“It is for what I did on the pitch, but also showed that I liked Sporting CP and took pride in representing the club.
“For me it is, and always will be, a privilege to be here and be able to wear the Sporting CP jersey.
“You can expect more and better.
“I promise the same delivery and dedication so we can have more moments of glory as we had last season.”
Bruno Fernandes has been Sporting’s best player over the past two seasonsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
