Manchester United have intensified discussions with representatives of West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to reports from Caught Offside. This comes as the club nears the completion of a £38 million deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, expected to be their first summer signing.
The pursuit of Fernandes is part of a broader strategy to reinforce United’s midfield ahead of the upcoming season, anticipating potential departures of Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte. West Ham’s recent relegation from the Premier League may facilitate a lower transfer fee than initially anticipated, with the club previously valuing Fernandes at £80 million.
Sources suggest Fernandes could now be available for under €50 million (£43.2m / $58.2m), a price point that would represent good value for a player of his quality and potential. The 21-year-old was a standout performer for West Ham during a difficult 2025/26 campaign.
While Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Chelsea have also expressed interest in Fernandes, United are believed to hold an advantage due to the player’s admiration for captain Bruno Fernandes. The two players reportedly share a strong relationship off the pitch, potentially influencing the midfielder’s decision.
United are also considering other midfield options, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, but Fernandes remains a key target. A departure from West Ham for Fernandes appears increasingly likely, given the club’s relegation and the interest from multiple top-flight clubs. Securing Fernandes would provide manager Michael Carrick with another dynamic option in the centre of the park.
