Liverpool have reportedly moved ahead of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the race to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder Bruno Fernandes.

The Portugal international - who has just helped his national team win the UEFA Nations League - contributed 23 goals and 14 assists from 41 outings in Primeira Liga and Europa League this season.

That form has resulted in frequent speculation regarding the 24-year-old, who has been linked with a move to either Spurs or United in recent weeks.

However, according to Correiro de Manha, Liverpool are favourites to secure a deal for the playmaker as Spurs focus their attention on trying to keep hold of Christian Eriksen.

The report also claims that Fernandes is an admirer of Jurgen Klopp's style of play, a factor which could prove to be the difference when making a decision regarding his future.

Fernandes is expected to cost in excess of £50m should he be allowed to leave Sporting during the summer window.