Confirmation has arrived from Manchester United that they have struck a deal with Sporting Lisbon to acquire the services of Portuguese international Bruno Fernandes, just one day after an attack was launched on the house of the club’s chief, Ed Woodward.
In response to the dissatisfaction with Woodward’s management of the club since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, a group of enraged fans targeted his residence in Manchester on Tuesday evening. However, the club has now demonstrated their financial strength by securing the signing of Bruno Fernandes from Portugal for an initial fee of €55m, which has the potential to rise to €80m.
United’s executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward, finalized the agreement with the Portuguese giant after weeks of negotiations, which is likely to appease disillusioned supporters.
Sporting Lisbon is set to receive €55m (£46.56m) upfront, with an additional €10m (£8.46m) payment from United if Fernandes achieves easily attainable targets, and a further €15m (£12.7m) if more challenging objectives are met. It is understood that these clauses may include Fernandes winning the Ballon d’Or.
Manchester United officially announced the deal on Wednesday evening through their website, stating;
‘Manchester United is delighted to announce it has reached agreement with Sporting Clube de Portugal for the transfer of Bruno Fernandes.’
‘The deal is subject to a medical and the agreement of personal terms.’
A further announcement will be made in due course.’