(Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Portuguese outlet O Jogo have claimed that Tottenham Hotspur have moved into pole position to sign Sporting Lisbon captain Bruno Fernandes, after having a £62.5million bid accepted.

The 24-year-old Portugal international is one of the most sought-after players in Europe after having a hand in 50 goals throughout the entire 2018-19 campaign. He scored 32 from midfield, and created 18 assists.

Those incredible stats have seen Tottenham and Manchester City table offers for the 12-time Portugal cap, but Pep Guardiola’s City have failed to meet Sporting’s £62.5million asking price.

Indeed, City only offered £49million for his signature. Manchester United were said to be leading the race for Fernandes, but they are yet to make an offer for the playmaker and that sees Spurs go into pole position.

The report claims they have met Sporting’s asking price, and could now press ahead with making their first proper signing since January 2018. The north Londoners did bring in youngster Kion Etete from Notts County last week.

TBR’s view

Fernandes is one of the most in-form players in European football right now. His stats for Sporting last season were simply astonishing, but most importantly he is the perfect player for Spurs.

An incredible 32 goals from midfield is unheard of, especially given that Lisbon played eight times in the Europa League this season. For £62.5million, Fernandes is expensive, but worth the outlay.

Spurs are in need of a goalscoring midfielder and Fernandes is an excellent acquisition. With Christian Eriksen looking to leave, he could be the perfect replacement.