Real Madrid have frightened Manchester United off a January move for Sporting CP midfielder Bruno Fernandes.
The Sun says United have no interest in moving for the 24-year-old this winter.
It is claimed that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side have 'backed off' because they feel Real may try to sign him instead.
United's need for a No 10 is growing amid Jesse Lingard's dire form, with the England international yet to register a goal or assist this season.
But the report claims the Red Devils would rather move for Tottenham's Christian Eriksen instead of Fernandes.
Eriksen was eyed by United manager Solskjaer during the summer but, like Fernandes, the Denmark international opted to stay at his current club.
