Bruno Fernandes has sent transfer message to Manchester United ahead of January window

Manchester United are expecting a quiet January on the transfer front but Bruno Fernandes might be asking for them to bring a Portuguese compatriot to Old Trafford.

United confirmed during a Fans' Forum at the start of the week that they are not expecting January to be 'particularly busy', given the ongoing concern around financial fair play regulations. Erik ten Hag would love to strengthen his squad but the mid-season window is never a prime time to land top targets.

The Manchester Evening News understands five players are up for sale, however, and any exits will likely set the wheels in motion for additions. Casemiro is one of the five and his departure could lead United to search for midfield reinforcements.

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Reports have suggested that United are plotting a January move for Joao Neves, who has enjoyed a breakthrough year with Benfica in 2023. The 19-year-old has succeeded Enzo Fernandez at the Estadio Da Luz and earned a call-up for the Portuguese national team, where he played with Fernandes.

It was during the November international break that Neves caught the eye of Fernandes, who was very impressed with what he saw from the teenager.

“I would love to have him at United, he has top quality! But it’s João choice," Fernandes admitted in November. “He’s great player. He will have a great future, in United or somewhere else.”

United are not the only party said to be interested, with fellow Portugal international Bernardo Silva also admitting he would like the midfielder in Manchester, albeit with City. Just about every top team in Europe has eyes on Neves at the