Pranav Nair
Bruno Fernandes urges Manchester United to secure Sporting Lisbon wonderkid Nuno Mendes
According to reports in the Portuguese media via Sport Witness (h/t The Express), Manchester United superstar Bruno Fernandes has thrown in his weight behind the club’s pursuit of Nuno Mendes.
The 18-year-old made his senior debut for Lisbon last season and has since emerged as a key player for the Portuguese giants. He played a key role in their Primeira League win this season, their first in 19 years.
United are keen to strengthen their squad in the summer and have identified the left-back as one of their priority targets.
It was reported recently that United had gotten in touch with Sporting regarding a potential deal. Maybe an escalation, but the player’s agent, Miguel Pinho is expected to travel to Manchester to work out a deal.
It could however prove to a double-edged sword given Manchester City are also interested. Pinho also represents Fernandes and helped the midfielder move to Old Trafford in 2020.
Lisbon are in no hurry to seal the deal. They are keen to see if Mendes will make the Portugal squad for the summer’s European Championships. They however appear resigned to losing him in the summer.
A question of ideals
United are pushing forward with a bid of £34m and could include a player as a sweetener but only on loan. Alex Telles, who joined United last summer could be the player in offer.
However, it may prove harder than it sounds. The Brazilian, who earlier played for Porto, has already hinted at his reluctance to represent their rivals Sporting.
Telles is an excellent player but has struggled to gain prominence at United. A return to Portugal could very well see him rekindle his career. Whether he chooses to do so or remain true to his ideals remains to be seen.
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Mendes is one of the standout talents of his generation and is amongst the best young left-backs in European football. He has made 35 appearances for Lisbon this season, scoring once and assisting two more. (h/t Transfermarkt)
