Manchester United Intensify Pursuit of Mateus Fernandes as Midfield Rebuild Continues
Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their efforts to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes as Michael Carrick continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new season.
The Portuguese midfielder has emerged as one of the club’s leading transfer priorities after United decided to move away from other midfield targets.
One of those targets was Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson, but the financial demands surrounding a potential deal made United reconsider their options, especially with strong competition from other clubs.
Carrick and the recruitment team have already secured the arrival of Brazilian midfielder Ederson from Atalanta in a deal worth approximately £39 million, including add-ons.
However, Ederson is viewed more as a versatile midfield option rather than a direct replacement for veteran midfielder Casemiro, who is expected to complete a move to Inter Miami.
Manchester United have also explored several other possibilities in the market. Players such as Aurélien Tchouaméni, Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Alex Scott have all been monitored at different stages.
While some remain admired by the club, attention has increasingly shifted toward Fernandes following his impressive performances over the last campaign.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a strong season in the Premier League, making 36 appearances while contributing both defensively and offensively.
His ability to combine ball progression, creativity, interceptions, and tackling has made him one of the most highly rated young midfielders in England.
Initially, there was a belief within Old Trafford that West Ham’s recent relegation could force them into accepting a lower transfer fee. However, circumstances have changed significantly.
A shift in ownership at the London club has reduced financial pressure, allowing West Ham to take a firmer stance regarding the future of their star midfielder.
Reports suggest the Hammers have placed a substantial valuation on Fernandes. Some sources claim the asking price could be as high as £100 million, while other reliable reports indicate that West Ham are demanding around £80 million before considering any sale.
Southampton are also set to benefit from any future transfer due to a sell-on clause included when Fernandes joined West Ham.
Despite concerns over the price, Manchester United remain interested. Club officials reportedly feel that paying such a large amount for a player with only two seasons of top-flight English football experience represents a significant risk. Nevertheless, the midfielder’s potential continues to attract admiration across Europe.
United are not the only club monitoring the situation. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid have all been linked with Fernandes.
However, Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as perhaps the biggest threat to United’s hopes.
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi is believed to be a huge admirer of the Portuguese star and has encouraged the club to pursue a deal.
Spurs have already opened discussions with the player’s representatives and are reportedly willing to increase their efforts if necessary.
Even with growing competition, Manchester United remain confident. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that personal terms are unlikely to present any difficulties.
Fernandes is believed to view a move to Old Trafford positively and has long admired United captain Bruno Fernandes, whom he considers a role model.
While no official bid has yet been submitted, expectations are growing that Manchester United will soon formalize their interest. The club hopes patience and strategic negotiations could eventually help lower West Ham’s demands.
For United, securing Fernandes would represent a major statement of intent as they prepare for another Champions League campaign.
Missing out on another key midfield target—especially to a direct rival—would be a significant setback for Carrick’s rebuilding project.
As a result, the coming weeks could prove crucial in determining whether Fernandes becomes the next addition to Manchester United’s evolving midfield.
