Sporting president praises Bruno Fernandes for understanding why Tottenham bid was rejected

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This summer saw Tottenham Hotspur strongly linked with a move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Bruno Fernandes. 

As reported by The Sun, Sporting wanted about £60 million for their star midfielder and it seems Daniel Levy was not willing to meet such a price. 

The player himself spoke of his disappointment at not making the move. The midfielder told GQ Portugal, as relayed by Sky Sports, he was ready to make the move to Tottenham this summer but a deal could not be thrashed out between the two clubs. 

Now, the Portuguese club’s president has been praising the player for his behaviour surrounding the deal.

Speaking to Sporting TV, as reported by A Bola, Frederico Varandas spoke highly of Fernandes as he confirmed plans to offer the 24-year-old a new contract. 

“Bruno has shown that he is not only a great player, and I value this very much, but also a great professional and captain. I’ve been in the transfer markets for 12 years now, I know how it moves a player. 

“Bruno showed exemplary behavior. The day I turned down Tottenham’s proposal, the first thing I did was come to (Sporting’s training complex) Alcochete, called Bruno and explained why I did so. He understood perfectly and realized that it was not fair value for Sporting.”

Record reported earlier in the day that Sporting were ready to offer him a pay-rise in order to avoid paying a fine for failing to accept an offer that met his release clause last summer. However, he is still expected to leave the club next summer with a €70 million (£63m) price-tag currently mooted. 

Tottenham could be hunting for a Christian Eriksen replacement next summer with the Dane out of contract in North London at the end of the season. 

Fernandes, who has been in fine form for both club and country, would certainly be a brilliant recruit in that regard. 

Considering the way he has conducted himself at Sporting, it seems Tottenham would also be getting their hands on a great character for the changing room.