Fernandes set for Pompey exit
18 Dec 2006 - 16:00:06
-
- Fernandes set for Pompey exit
Portsmouth will not pursue their interest in Manuel Fernandes and keep the on loan Benfica midfielder at the club.
The 21-year-old is on loan at Fratton Park until January 1 but Pompey boss Harry Redknapp does not believe his performances this season justify the £12million fee he would have to pay to make the transfer permanent.
"All I know is if he starts three Premier League games in a row a permanent deal clicks in. I didn't do the deal. It wasn't my idea. I inherited it," revealed Redknapp.
"But the fee is £12million and I don't want to pay £12million. I've spoken to Manuel about it and even he thinks the price is too high.
"He's a good player and for the right fee I would buy him. He's a young kid with potential, but I couldn't put my name to £12million for him."
Fernandes netted on his debut for Pompey in the Carling Cup at Mansfield but during an injury-plagued campaign has made only five Premiership starts.