Manchester United have confirmed the signing of long-term target Bruno Fernandes on a five-and-a-half year deal from Sporting CP.
The announcement brings the lengthy transfer saga to an end and the midfielder could be involved in the Red Devils game against Wolves on Saturday evening.
In a statement published on the club's official website, Fernandes revealed his excitement at joining his new club.
"My love of Manchester United really started when I used to watch Cristiano Ronaldo play and ever since then I have been a big fan of this great club," he said.
"For me to now play for Manchester United feels incredible, I have worked hard to get to this moment and I can promise the fans that I will give everything for the badge to help bring us more success and trophies.
"I want to thank Sporting for everything they have done for me. It is surreal to hear the nice words that have been said about me from players that used to play for this team. A massive thank you to Ole and everyone at Manchester United for the trust they have shown in me and I can’t wait to start to repay that on the pitch.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admitted that he was relieved that the move was finally complete.
"We have been tracking Bruno for many months and everyone here has been tremendously impressed with all his attributes and what he will bring to this team," the Norwegian beamed.
"Most importantly he is a terrific human being with a great personality and his leadership qualities are clear for all to see.
"Bruno’s goals and assists stats speak for themselves, he will be a fantastic addition to our team and he will help us push on in the second part of the season. The winter break is coming at a perfect time for us to integrate Bruno into the squad and for him to get to know his team-mates.”
United are understood to be paying an initial sum of €55m (around £46.6m) for the playmaker with add-ons making up the rest of the fee.
Sporting will be due €5m after a set number of appearances, €5m for Champions League qualification and €15m in the case of Fernandes winning the Ballon d'Or. They will also be eligible for 10% of the profits from any future sale of the player.
The 25-year-old is ending a two-and-a-half season stint at Sporting, during which time he made 137 appearances, registering 63 goals and 52 assists.
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Source :
90min
