Manchester United are right to pursue Bruno Fernandes instead of James Maddison in the transfer market.

That is the view of former Red Devil Paul Parker who reckons Fernandes' £50m price tag represents good value when compared to the alternatives on United's shortlist.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to add some creativity to his midfield with several options already on his mind.

Maddison was an early target, but Leicester were demanding north of £100m for their playmaker - over double what Fernandes is set to cost United.

And Parker, who won several Premier League titles at Old Trafford, reckons the 25-year-old is the better deal.

(Image: Global Media Group/Sipa USA)

“I wouldn’t have any concerns over him playing in Portugal at his age," he told the WeAreTheBusbyBoys podcast.

“People say you can’t put the words £50m and bargain together, but when you’re talking about James Maddison costing near or over £120m, and the fact he will have to hit the ground running, you have to reconsider.

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“You’re getting a player who is technically better than any other United player in that area, other than arguably [Juan] Mata.”





While Solskjaer would be buoyed by the arrival of the Sporting Lisbon star he may have to accept defeat and offload captain Ashley Young.

The 34-year-old has rejected a contract extension and is interested in a switch to Inter Milan - something Parker thinks they should allow to happen if United want to keep the group harmonious.

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He added: “If he wants to move, if it’s for the money or the lifestyle, or if he wants a chance at winning a league title medal, then you’re going to have to just let him go.

“You don’t want a player moping around and becoming a sour apple."