Manchester United have turned their attention to West Ham United’s rising Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to Sky Sports. The 21‑year‑old, who featured prominently for the Hammers in the second half of last season, is valued at roughly £80 million – nearly double the £38 million the London club paid for him in the summer.
United are reportedly conducting background checks on Fernandes as part of a broader effort to reinforce their midfield after the club’s relegation. The Red Devils have already secured a £38 million agreement for Atalanta’s Ederson, and see Fernandes as a realistic target to bolster their squad.
Key developments
West Ham have made it clear they are not in a rush to part with the player. While they acknowledge the interest from United – as well as from Arsenal and Paris Saint‑Germain – the Hammers are prepared to keep Fernandes to aid a swift promotion push, provided their asking price is met.
Fernandes finished the 2025/26 campaign with 42 appearances across all competitions, including 36 Premier League games, contributing five goals and five assists for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side. His performances earned him a place in Portugal’s World Cup squad and placed him among the league’s top ten midfielders for distance covered.
What happens next
Former Southampton coach Russell Rusk highlighted Fernandes’s defensive tenacity, noting his high tackling numbers and relentless work rate. Originally signed by Southampton as a more advanced “No 10”, Fernandes has evolved into a versatile box‑to‑box player, comfortable operating between a No 6 and No 8 role.
As the transfer window progresses, no formal bid has been lodged and there has been no direct contact between Manchester United and West Ham. The Hammers remain firm on their valuation, waiting to see which suitor is willing to meet it.
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