Bruno Fernandes has given green light to Man Utd to complete club-record signing

Manchester United are reportedly plotting a club-record bid to sign Benfica star Goncalo Ramos - and Bruno Fernandes has already praised his countryman's qualities.

The Daily Mirror claim that United are readying a bid to sign the Portugal star, who impressed at the World Cup in Qatar, as well as Tottenham's Harry Kane in an unprecedented double transfer.

The 21-year-old is said to be seen by United chiefs as a 'brilliant prospect' for the future, with the club targeting a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

It is perhaps apt, therefore, that Ramos replaced Ronaldo in Portugal's starting XI for their World Cup last 16 match against Switzerland before going on to smash in a hat-trick during a 6-1 win.

He replaced Liverpool star Darwin Nunez as Benfica's leading striker after the Uruguayan moved to Anfield last summer, and has scored 17 goals in 27 league appearances. However, Ramos hasn't found the net in any of his last five league starts.

But it is his Champions League displays that have also impressed, with seven goals in 13 appearances for the Portugal striker across qualifying and the competition proper.

And Fernandes, his potential future team-mate, has already stated how much of an asset he could be to United.

Fernandes praises Ramos

Speaking during the World Cup, the 28-year-old United vice-captain gave a list of qualities that the striker possesses.

The former Sporting Lisbon midfielder said (quotes via The Athletic): "People are not aware of the quality of the Portuguese league. Benfica have been doing really well in the Champions League, so people should be aware of Goncalo, of his qualities.

"He's a player that runs and works a lot, helps the team defensively. He's that type of striker that is everywhere.

"He had the chance to score three goals, but he's a striker that creates space for others, fights, has the ball and is strong. Today was his day to score the goals and we're happy for that."

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Ramos has been left 'very disappointed' that Benfica have not fulfilled a contract 'renewal promise' - which could convince United to swoop quickly to secure the striker's signature.

Topics: Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes, Premier League, Portugal, Transfers, Benfica

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.