Head coach of Sporting CP Marcel Keizer has had his take on the persistent rumors about Bruno Fernandes' imminent departure ahead of Sunday's Super Taca showdown with Benfica. The Dutch manager has retained confidence in his side's skipper to deliver a fine performance in what could be his final bow for the Lions.
Bruno Fernandes has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United and earlier this week, it was reported that talks are advancing well for the 24-year-old to seal his move to the Premier League. Tottenham Hotspur is also believed to be in pursuit of the midfielder who registered 31 goals for Sporting last season.
On Saturday, Portuguese daily Record stated that Real Madrid has now entered the race to sign Fernandes with their interest in Paul Pogba rapidly fading. The report claims that Zinedine Zidane's side is counting on super-agent Jorge Mendes to lead negotiations in a bid to hijack Manchester United's move.
Amid the battle for the midfielder's signature, his manager Keizer expects him to put in a good show on Sunday before potentially parting ways with the club.
"If everything goes as normal, he will play," the Sporting manager declared.
"Obviously this attention can affect a player, it is normal.
"But I believe that Bruno, who is a very good person, can put it aside and play, as he has done already.
"He has a lot to think about, like all the players who are coveted."
