Bruno Fernandes, who dazzled as a midfielder for Sporting Lisbon before his high-profile move to Manchester United in 2020, has recently revealed that he was once on the brink of joining Tottenham Hotspur. This revelation has left Tottenham fans wondering about the transfer that almost was.
Back in 2019, a move to Tottenham seemed nearly certain for Fernandes. Then-manager Mauricio Pochettino was keen on bringing Fernandes to North London, seeing immense potential in the Portuguese star. Had the transfer gone through, Fernandes would have been set to link up with Harry Kane and Son Heung-min, forming what could have been a formidable trio in the Premier League.
However, the deal fell through at the last minute. Sporting Lisbon rejected Tottenham’s offer, delaying Fernandes’ arrival in England by a year. It wasn’t until 2020 that Fernandes finally made his way to the Premier League, but it was with Manchester United, not Tottenham.
Reflecting on the failed transfer, Fernandes admitted that he was frustrated at the time. Yet, he now finds himself thriving at Manchester United, where he has quickly become a key player and team captain. With three years remaining on his contract, plus an option for an additional year, Fernandes has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of United’s resurgence.
Fernandes’ story is a reminder of how pivotal decisions and missed opportunities can shape a footballer’s career. It also underscores the unpredictable nature of the transfer market, where a player’s path can change in an instant. For many fans, the thought of what might have been—a partnership between Fernandes and Son at Tottenham—remains an intriguing “what if.”
Despite the what-could-have-beens, Fernandes is now writing his own chapter at Manchester United, where his journey continues to captivate fans. As he leads United forward, the tales of his past only add to the richness of his ongoing story in the Premier League.
