Manchester United are increasingly optimistic about securing the transfer of West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes this summer, while also making progress in their pursuit of Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, despite emerging competition from Chelsea.
United manager Michael Carrick is aiming to bolster his squad ahead of their return to the Champions League, with midfield reinforcements a priority. The club has already agreed terms with Ederson, who is scheduled for a medical in New York, and are now focusing on adding at least two, potentially three, new midfielders alongside a forward and a left-back.
According to transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher, while an initial bid for Fernandes is expected to be rejected by West Ham, there is a growing belief that a deal will ultimately be finalised. Journalist Samuel Luckhurst reports that Real Madrid, previously interested in Fernandes, now anticipate him moving to Old Trafford, with United already engaged in talks and the player himself favouring a move to Manchester.
United are expected to offer a fee below West Ham’s £80 million valuation, with a figure in the region of £60 million considered a likely outcome. Simultaneously, United’s interest in Lewis Hall is intensifying, with Carrick seeking cover and competition for Luke Shaw.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed United’s continued contact with Hall’s representatives, stating the club “really like” the player and view him as a key target. Newcastle are expected to resist the sale, but Chelsea have also entered the race, presenting a challenge to United’s pursuit. Hall, who missed out on a place in the England squad for the summer tournament, is valued at approximately £55 million.
The potential combined cost of Fernandes and Hall could reach £115 million, signalling United’s intent to invest significantly in their squad this summer. The club has experienced a setback in their pursuit of a wide player, with a LaLiga winger rejecting their advances in favour of a move to Newcastle, but are also exploring options including a player from Paris Saint-Germain.
