Bruno Fernandes has disclosed that he came within days of joining Tottenham Hotspur before ultimately signing for Manchester United in January 2020. The Portuguese midfielder explained during a recent podcast appearance how Sporting CP blocked the move at the final moment, fundamentally altering the trajectory of his career in English football.
During the 2019 transfer window, Tottenham were actively pursuing Fernandes as a successor to Christian Eriksen, who was preparing to leave the club. Negotiations progressed to an advanced stage, with personal terms largely settled between the player and Spurs. However, in the final days of the market, Sporting refused to sanction the departure, deciding to retain their star playmaker for the remainder of the season.
Fernandes' Premier League Ambitions
Speaking candidly on The Diary Of A CEO podcast, Fernandes confirmed his eagerness to make the move happen. "Yeah, I spoke with Tottenham, and we were very close to getting an agreement done," he recalled. "Then, in the last two days of the market, Sporting just said, 'We're not going to sell him. We're going to keep him because we need him.'" The midfielder stressed his long-held desire to test himself in the Premier League, describing it as the most competitive and prestigious league in world football. His dream had always been to play in England's top division, where full stadiums and elite clubs represented the pinnacle of the sport.
Fernandes ultimately achieved his ambition, but through Manchester United rather than Tottenham. United completed a £67.6 million transfer in January 2020, turning the Red Devils into his preferred destination. Since joining, he has become one of the club's most consistent creative forces, delivering regular goals and assists despite United's inconsistent performances in the post-Ferguson era. His impact has been particularly significant in the midfield, where his technical quality and leadership presence have been instrumental.
Addressing Criticism and Moving Forward
Beyond discussing the near-transfer to Spurs, Fernandes also responded to recent criticism from pundit Roy Keane. He clarified that while he welcomes fair assessment of his performances, he takes issue with what he views as inaccurate commentary. "I don't mind criticism," Fernandes stated. "What I don't like is when people lie about things and put words in my mouth that have not been said." He emphasised that his words are on record and can be verified, making misleading claims particularly frustrating.
As Manchester United prepares for the upcoming campaign with Champions League football secured, Fernandes remains central to their midfield strategy. Before returning to pre-season training, the playmaker will focus on Portugal's 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, where he continues to anchor his nation's attacking play and demonstrate the calibre that nearly took him to Tottenham five years ago.
