Manchester United have intensified their pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the highly-rated Portuguese youngster now emerging as one of the club’s leading priorities during the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils have shifted their focus to the 21-year-old after cooling their interest in Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson. Anderson’s soaring valuation and the expectation that he could join Manchester City have prompted United to explore alternative options, placing Fernandes firmly at the top of their shortlist.
United have already secured a £39 million agreement for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. However, the Brazilian is viewed as a versatile squad addition rather than the long-term successor to Casemiro, who is widely expected to complete a move to Inter Miami. Although Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni remains Ruben Amorim’s ideal target, the club acknowledge that negotiating a deal for the French international would be extremely challenging.
Over recent months, Manchester United have monitored several midfielders, including Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton. Despite assessing numerous candidates, Fernandes has now emerged as the preferred option following an outstanding campaign with West Ham.
The Portugal international featured in 36 Premier League matches last season, regularly completing full games while contributing seven combined goals and assists. He also impressed with his defensive work, consistently winning tackles, breaking up opposition attacks and showing the energy required to thrive in England’s top flight.
United had initially hoped West Ham’s financial position might encourage the London club to negotiate a lower transfer fee. However, recent ownership developments have strengthened West Ham’s financial standing, allowing them to hold firm in negotiations.
Current reports indicate that the Hammers value Fernandes at around £80 million, although some sources believe they could demand as much as £100 million before considering a sale. Southampton would also benefit from any transfer, having secured a 15 percent sell-on clause when Fernandes previously left the club.
While Manchester United are hesitant to match such a significant asking price, particularly for a player still relatively early in his Premier League career, they remain determined to explore a deal. Fernandes has also attracted interest from several European heavyweights, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as United’s strongest rivals in the race. Spurs are understood to have already opened discussions with the player’s representatives, headed by super-agent Jorge Mendes, and have reportedly received encouraging feedback regarding a possible move.
Even so, Manchester United remain optimistic. Personal terms are not expected to present any major obstacles, and the club are believed to be preparing an official bid as they look to move negotiations forward.
Behind the scenes, there is confidence at Old Trafford that they still hold the advantage. Fernandes is reportedly attracted by the opportunity to join United, with the prospect of playing alongside fellow Portugal international Bruno Fernandes viewed as one of the biggest factors influencing his decision.
After missing out on other transfer targets earlier in the window, United are determined not to suffer another setback. Club officials are expected to increase their efforts in the coming weeks as they attempt to complete the signing of one of Europe’s brightest young midfield talents and strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season.
