Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reportedly pleaded with Manchester United's board to back him in his pursuit of Sporting Lisbon star Bruno Fernandes.

The 24-year-old is rumoured to be high on Solskjaer's summer wishlist after playing a direct part in 33 Primeira Liga goals last season.

United have been told to pay £50m for the Portugal international, but they apparently only have £30m to spend as the vast majority of their budget is going to go on Leicester City centre-back Harry Maguire.

Portuguese publication Correio da Manha claims that United boss Solskjaer has urged chief executive Ed Woodward to put up the funds to sign Fernandes, however, as he feels the talented midfielder can justify the fee.

The Red Devils started their pre-season campaign with a 2-0 win over Perth Glory on Saturday afternoon.