Ole Gunnar Solskjaer tight-lipped over Manchester United's move for Bruno Fernandes

United manager says club has money despite Deloitte report saying club's status as England's richest club was 'at risk'

Sporting midfielder Bruno Fernandes has been linked with a move to Manchester United during the January transfer window. EPA

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained tight-lipped Tuesday regarding the club's pursuit of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Bruno Fernandes.

United are reportedly in negotiations with the Portuguese club over the sale of the 25-year-old, but Solskjaer indicated at a news conference ahead of Wednesday's FA Cup third-round replay against Wolves that nothing was imminent.

"I've got no transfer updates," he said. "If we get something we can tell you about we will, but we've got no news now."

The Norwegian indicated there was money to spend during the January transfer window should the club wish to do so, despite a report that suggested United's status as England's richest club was "at risk".

According to the latest Deloitte Football Money League, United generated the third highest revenue among football clubs in 2018/19, behind only Barcelona and Real Madrid.

But the consulting form warned they could fall next year given their failure to qualify for this season's Champions League.

However, Solskjaer offered a robust defence of the club's status.

"The most important thing for me is we get the results sorted and the performances on the pitch," he said.

"But I know that we've got the resources, we've got the backing. If we need to go into the transfer market we are still up there so we're still in a good place."

One player who looks to be on his way out of Old Trafford is former England international Ashley Young.

Solskjaer confirmed the long-serving United defender will not be involved against Wolves, adding to speculation the 34-year-old is set to bring down the curtain on his nine-year stay at the club.

Young turned down the offer of a 12-month extension last week and has been linked with a move to Serie A giants Inter Milan, though that has been thrown into doubt with Antonio Conte's Inter set to sign Leonardo Spinazzola from rivals Roma in a swap deal involving Matteo Politano.

One player pressing his claims for inclusion is 18-year-old striker Mason Greenwood, who started in the goalless draw between the two sides at Molineux on January 4.

Greenwood has enjoyed a hugely impressive season to date, scoring nine goals for United's senior side in 26 appearances and bagging his first goal for England Under 21s, but Solskjaer cautioned against England taking him to Euro 2020 amid concerns over the availability of the injured Harry Kane.

"I think Mason will have a top career, a long career, but let the boy settle in now before we talk about England and the Euros," he said.

"His focus has to be playing for us and improving. When he plays well for us, that will happen by itself."

Solskjaer is trying to carefully manage the demands on his younger players, and his squad as a whole, as they prepare for their 14th game in 46 days.

"It is physically and mentally demanding and we've got to make sure we energise them with results," he said.

With United well off the pace in the Premier League, and needing to overturn a 3-1 deficit to neighbours Manchester City in the League Cup semi-final, the FA Cup offers United their most realistic chance of silverware this season.

"This tournament is one that we all dream about winning when we're young," Solskjaer said.

"I loved my time in the finals and lifting the trophy, so we want to go through."