Sporting Lisbon are reportedly delaying Bruno Fernandes's move to Manchester United as they want the attacker to be available for Friday's clash with Benfica.

The Portugal international continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford, and it is thought that United are in a strong position to secure a deal for the attacking midfielder.

However, according to O Jogo, Sporting are delaying any agreement for the moment as they want their captain to take part in their biggest league game of the season at home to Benfica on Friday.

The Green and Whites have serious ground to make up in Portugal's top flight as they currently sit down in fourth spot in the table, 16 points behind leaders Benfica.

Fernandes has again been in impressive form at club level during the 2019-20 campaign, though, scoring 15 times and contributing 13 assists in 25 appearances in all competitions.

United are allegedly willing to pay the attacker in the region of £150,000 a week in order to ensure that he turns down interest from elsewhere to join the 20-time English champions.