INEOS targets Mateus Fernandes as Manchester United pivot to midfield rebuild
Sources indicate the 21-year-old Portugal international considers Old Trafford his preferred destination, with United viewing him as a key addition to support captain Bruno Fernandes.
Manchester United are reportedly preparing to initiate a transfer bid for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with sources indicating the 21-year-old Portugal international considers Old Trafford his first choice among interested clubs. The move is being facilitated by West Ham’s relegation to the Championship, a development that has significantly altered the negotiating landscape for the club’s prized asset.
The descent into the second tier is expected to reduce the asking fee from in excess of £80 million to approximately £60 million. West Ham originally paid £42 million to sign Fernandes from Southampton last summer, but the financial implications of relegation have weakened their position, allowing United to potentially secure the player at a more manageable price point.
Interest in Fernandes extends beyond the Premier League, with Paris Saint-Germain having held talks with the player’s camp. Domestic rivals including Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Newcastle United are also monitoring the situation. However, reports from The i Paper cite well-placed sources stating that Fernandes has his sights set on joining Manchester United, where he views the opportunity to support captain Bruno Fernandes as a primary motivator.
The timing of a potential transfer is considered advantageous for United, as Fernandes was not selected for Portugal’s World Cup squad. Manager Roberto Martinez opted against including the youngster in the final roster, citing fierce competition in the national midfield. This omission allows Fernandes to negotiate and join pre-season activities without international distraction, a factor that aids United’s strategy to finalise the deal in the coming weeks.
Manchester United’s hierarchy, led by INEOS, is prioritising Fernandes due to his tactical versatility, specifically his ability to receive the ball across the pitch. The club views him as the perfect foil for Bruno Fernandes and is looking to build a squad capable of mounting a title tilt. As part of this restructuring, midfielder Michael Carrick is set to be sold to make room for the Portuguese international, while United also advance a separate deal for Atalanta’s Ederson.
