TBR View: Spurs set to pay price for not coughing up for Bruno Fernandes

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Spurs missed out on signing Bruno Fernandes in the summer and could now pay a big price at a crucial stage of the season.

The Portuguese midfielder was one of a number of players tracked in the summer by Spurs. However, Sporting Lisbon opted to reject Spurs’ advances at the time. Furthermore, Fernandes then signed a new deal with the club.

However, with latest reports from Sky Sports suggesting Manchester United are set to sign Fernandes, it looks like Spurs missed the boat with one of Europe’s top midfield talents.

According to Portuguese football expert and journalist, Filipe Dias, Fernandes will join Man United for the same or even less than Spurs offered in the summer.

That in itself is a blow for Spurs. Furthermore, at a time when they are suffering from injuries and lack of form from some players, it could hit harder than imagined.

Problems at Spurs

As well as the serious injury to Harry Kane, Spurs also have worries over a number of other players.

Moussa Sissoko is out for the foreseeable future, while Tanguy Ndombele is struggling with niggles and form. Christian Eriksen, despite being fit, is reportedly in talks over a move to Inter Milan.

That leaves Jose Mourinho woefully short of options in the midfield area. Furthermore, the club faces stiff competition from West Ham to land another Portuguese star, Gedson Fernandes.

With an injury-hit squad, it makes the failure to capture Bruno Fernandes all the more relevant.

Lure of Man United

Another problem this highlights for Spurs is the fact they are still fifth or sixth choice for a lot of players.

Despite Man United’s struggles, it appears Fernandes wants to move to Old Trafford. That tells a story of how the Red Devils still remain a giant of the English game, despite being woefully out of sorts on the field.

It’s a wider problem Spurs need to address in the long-term. They are well-placed to do so, given their new stadium and having a manager of Mourinho’s calibre in place.

However, with Fernandes now looking likely to join Man United, it could be a long few months ahead for the London club.