Former Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has recalled trying to sign Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes.

The Spaniard has sensationally revealed that Newcastle were monitoring Fernandes during his time in charge of the Magpies and, at one stage, they believed they could land the former Sampdoria and Udinese star on a free transfer.

"Bruno Fernandes was a player we were following at Newcastle United," Benitez revealed to The Times.

"He was at Sporting Lisbon and he had an issue with his club. There was a chance he could leave on a free.

"We were progressing but the problem was that the matter would go to court and that would complicate it. The club didn't want that.

"He has been crucial for (Manchester) United. He changed everything with the way he is playing - assists and goals. He has 'personality'.

"He tries to look for the right passes. In recent games, I saw him going to press with determination and intensity."