Bayern Munich have reportedly taken the first steps towards signing Bruno Fernandes.
The Portuguese midfielder is attracting interest from a host of clubs ahead of the transfer window. Fernandes, who addressed his Manchester United future after the 3-2 win over Newcastle United last month, said: “I will be here until when the club wants me and the club wants me to be a part of the future. If for some reason they don’t want me, then I will go.”
According to Portuguese newspaper O Jogo, Bayern have initiated talks with Fernandes’ agent Miguel Pinho, while Barcelona have also expressed an interest in his services. Fernandes has been a key player for United since his £46million transfer move from Sporting Clube de Portugal in 2020.
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Erik ten Hag insisted the club have no intention of selling him, saying: “No, absolutely, the club wants to keep Bruno, it’s no question. He loves Manchester United, he loves the fans from Manchester United and he loves to play for Manchester United, that’s all I know.”
Elsewhere, United have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Schalke 04 midfielder Assan Ouedraogo. The Red Devils have been linked with the 18-year-old for some time, along with Chelsea and Bayern Munich.
However, Sky Germany now claim that Bayern have pulled out of the race. Journalist Florian Plettenberg adds that the player’s camp has been informed of their decision.
While discussions are thought to have taken place between parties, it is said that a ‘few final details were missing.’ With that said, a move to the Premier League could be a possibility.
Schalke are reported to have set a £12million release clause for any interested clubs from the English top flight.
Ouedraogo is being touted as a potential solution to United’s midfield. Donny van de Beek’s future at Old Trafford is uncertain after spending the season on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, while Casemiro has underwhelmed this season and could also be sold.
The 18-year-old is one of the most highly-rated youngsters in Germany and broke into Schalke’s first-team this season having joined the club at the age of eight. He went on to make 18 appearances in the Bundesliga second division.
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