Real Madrid warned off making Bruno Fernandes transfer move as legendary former striker tells La Liga giants Man Utd star isn't 'viable' & that defenders should be the priority

Former Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes has made it clear he is not convinced that Bruno Fernandes would be the right signing for the club. The Manchester United captain has been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, but Morientes believes Los Blancos, who were reported as being prepared to pay £90 million for the midfielder, need to focus on defensive additions.

Courtesy of bet365’s Sport and Betting News UEFA Champions League Coverage, Morientes said: "Bruno Fernandes to Real Madrid? No, I’m not sure, and I don't see it as viable. He's an interesting profile, but I don't think Real Madrid are interested right now. 

"He's not Real Madrid's priority, I think they're thinking a lot more about other positions, and although in that position there are some players who might be finishing their careers, I get the feeling they're looking for more defenders."

Morientes’ comments come after Ruben Amorim dismissed the idea of Fernandes, who is under contract until 2027, leaving the club. 

Speaking late last month, Amorim said of speculation surrounding Fernandes’ future: "He’s not going anywhere because I’ve already told him. It’s not happening. We’ve had low points this season but I want Bruno here as we want to win the league again."

From a Madrid perspective it’s difficult to disagree with Morientes’ assessment. Their 1-0 win over Alaves last weekend ended a run of nine games without a clean sheet, a leaky defence seemingly set to cost them in both La Liga and the Champions League.

Amorim may be defiant in his stance that Fernandes is not going anywhere, but speculation around United’s captain and star performer in a dreadful season will only grow louder if the Red Devils are knocked out of the Europa League by Lyon on Thursday. That competition is United’s sole route into the Champions League, and it will likely become more difficult for United to hold on to Fernandes if they miss out on a place at European football’s top table once again. To maintain hopes of salvaging their season and have hope of a brighter future, United must ensure they get past Lyon and progress to the last four.