Harry hoping for Benfica deal

Harry Redknapp is still hopeful of signing Manuel Fernandes on a permanent deal.

The Portuguese international's loan spell from Benfica concludes at the start of January and as yet no deal has been agreed between the two clubs.

Benfica are reportedly holding out for £12million for the player who has also been linked with Manchester United, and their determination to stick to such a high figure had seemingly led talks to collapse.

However Redknapp has not given up hope of keeping Fernandes for the long term as the date of his return to Benfica looms large.

"I think his loan agreement runs out early January and it is either a case of you buy him or he goes back," Redknapp told Sky Sports News.

"I'd like to think there is a deal to be done for him somewhere because he is a good young player, there is no doubt about that.

"I just think if the clubs can agree a reasonable enough fee he is a player you would like to keep, but if it is not possible then he will have to go back.

"I don't know [what the chances are], it's up to the people, I don't get involved with the deals.

"If he is available and at the right price I would say keep him."

Redknapp will not make superfluous signings in January as his Pompey squad have performed superbly in elevating the club to fifth place in the Premiership.

"If there is any way we can find one or two in the transfer window to improve us we will bring them in, if we don't we will carry on as we are with what we have got," Redknapp added.

"I wouldn't bring in anybody just for the sake of it. If we can get one or two in that will make us a better team again then that is what the game is all about, you are looking to improve your squad and improve your team."