Bruno Fernandes' future remains up in the air with Manchester United reportedly willing to 'walk away' from a deal to sign the Sporting Lisbon star.
Both clubs have been locked in talks over a deal to take the Portuguese international to the Premier League but are yet to come to terms on a fee.
Fernandes is Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 's No.1 signing target with his ability to score from midfield also attracting admiring glances from the likes of Tottenham and teams in Serie A.
The 25-year-old has scored 50 times for club and country in the past 18 months and is expected to depart Lisbon before the close of the January transfer window.
And ESPN's football correspondent Rob Dawson claims the Old Trafford side will consider exiting talks to land the playmaker this month.
He reckons a recent price hike to land the former Udinese man means United could put the kibosh on any transfer.
He said: "United and Sporting Lisbon still miles apart on Bruno Fernandes.
"Sporting want €65m up front and €15m in add ons despite talking to Tottenham for around €45m and add ons in the summer.
"United won’t over pay and are prepared to walk away if price doesn’t come down."
Lisbon boss Jorge Silas is hoping Fernades will remain in place after he played against Benfica on Friday night.
He added: "I hope not. So far we don’t know, nor does Bruno know.
"We will try to keep him for more games, but it’s not up to us. The only wish I have is the best for him."
