Manchester United makes plea to board to sign £50m-rated star

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reportedly made a plea to the board in order to secure the services of Bruno Fernandes this summer.

The 24-year-old had a fantastic 2018/19 season where he contributed directly to 33 goals in the Primeira Liga for Sporting while playing a part in Portugal's Nations League triumph.

As such, he has been rumoured to be high on Solskjaer's wishlist for the summer, though United have yet to give the green light to sanction a deal for his signature.

According to Correio da Manha, the Red Devils may not be able to afford Fernandes' £50m asking price, given they would have only £30m to spend after the club-record purchase of Harry Maguire from Leicester City.

However, Solskjaer does not seem to have given up on the midfielder's pursuit and he has urged executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to provide additional funds to sign the Portuguese. 

United started their pre-season campaign on Saturday with a 2-0 win over Perth Glory. Their next game will come against Championship side Leeds United at the same Optus Stadium.