The player could instantly improve the midfield of Manchester United, while former club Everton will also be interested.
There are a few superb free transfers available this summer, and Manuel Fernandes could be the best of the lot.The Portuguese midfielder is 26, and has been playing for Turkish side Besiktas over the past two seasons.
The club is in financial difficulty after being found guilty of tax irregularities and face a large fine and a ban on signing new players, while many of their current stars – including Fernandes – are reported to have not been paid.
Fernandes has requested the club terminate the final year of his contract, to allow him to move on, find a new club, and save the club money on his wage bill.
He has been linked with a move to Spain and Real Zaragoza, but Premier League clubs would be foolish not to enquire after him.
His time in Turkey on the pitch has been successful, he has scored eight goals in over 30 appearances this season, and won the Turkish Cup in 2011.
Prior to that, his career has seen him spent time in English and Spanish leagues after starting off with Benfica in his native Portugal.
He spent a short time on loan with Portsmouth, and two spells with Everton, where he scored a memorable goal against Manchester United, but the Toffees were unable to afford his signature, and he signed for Valencia for £12 million.
He has already proved capable of playing in the Premier League, and if he is released from his contract, an ongoing situation, he would be a bargain.
David Moyes would be delighted to snap him up at last, while even Manchester United could do with an international standard 26-year-old to compliment the young inexperience and ageing legs that make up their midfield.
Fernandes’ contract situation is expected to be decided in the coming fortnight, and clubs should not hang around in attempting to secure his services for next season.
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