Jose Mourinho has reportedly requested that Real Madrid prioritize the signing of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, as he prepares for a potential return to the Spanish capital. Real Madrid are set to hold a presidential election on Sunday, with Mourinho widely expected to be re-appointed as head coach should Florentino Perez secure re-election.
Perez has pledged to make a club-record transfer bid if re-elected, stating he will offer at least €150 million for a midfield player who can contribute offensively. He has ruled out moves for Michael Olise, Jeremy Doku, and Erling Haaland, specifying the target plays outside of the Premier League. While Perez’s description doesn’t immediately align with Fernandes, AS reports Mourinho has specifically recommended the 21-year-old.
West Ham are currently seeking £80 million for Fernandes following their relegation to the Championship. The player impressed despite the team’s struggles, significantly increasing his market value after joining from Southampton last summer for an initial £38 million. Manchester United have already been linked with a move for Fernandes, and have reportedly held initial discussions with West Ham.
Liverpool and Arsenal are also monitoring the situation, with Arsenal reportedly making contact to explore a potential deal. Mourinho’s intervention could sway the transfer battle in Real Madrid’s favour, offering a potentially more attractive destination for Fernandes as he seeks to continue his development at a top European club. A move to Real Madrid would represent a significant step up for Fernandes, who has quickly established himself as a promising talent in the Premier League.
