- Man Utd linked with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes
- A club insider has made big claim
- Portuguese is one of many midfield targets
Manchester United look increasingly likely to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes this summer. The Portuguese has been linked with the Reds in recent months and is one of many names on the club’s shortlist.
There has been a huge claim made by West Ham inside @WestHam_Central who suggests a transfer is on the cards. He wrote to his followers on X:
“Mateus Fernandes is joining Bruno Fernandes. Heard it here first.”
United are in the market for at least two new midfielders this summer and seem to be closing in on Michael Carrick’s first summer signing. Reports claim that a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson is heading into its final stages.
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Why Man Utd are pursuing Mateus Fernandes
Mateus Fernandes isn’t a holding midfielder and isn’t a viable replacement for Casemiro. Finding an heir to the Brazilian is the top priority, but the midfield needs a complete overhaul.
Kobbie Mainoo will head into next season as a starter, judging by Carrick’s faith in the England international. But the futures of other central midfielders are uncertain, despite Casemiro’s exit when his contract expires in June.
Manuel Ugarte could be headed for the exit door as he endures a difficult spell at Old Trafford. Even without the Uruguayan, departing, there’s been talk of the club wanting to sign two new midfielders.
Mateus Fernandes has caught the eye throughout his debut season at West Ham. The 21-year-old joined the Hammers from Southampton for £40m last summer and has registered five goals and four assists in
The price the Reds might have to pay
United could be expected to pay around £60-70m for Mateus Fernandes, although West Ham are under pressure to sell their star players. Their financial situation means they need to raise over £100m and the Portugal international is one who is expected to be sold.
The young midfielder seems to be keen on a move to Old Trafford, where he’d link up with compatriot Bruno Fernandes. He revealed in an interview earlier this season that he idolised the Reds’ skipper.
Mateus Fernandes might not be a regular starter due to his profile and he still needs to work on the defensive side of his game. But adding him to a squad that will be competing in the UEFA Champions League next season makes so much sense.
