Manchester United have intensified their efforts to sign Matheus Fernandes from West Ham United, according to recent reports. The Red Devils are now frontrunners in the race for the 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder, who has emerged as a standout performer despite the Hammers' relegation struggles this season. INEOS officials have held recent discussions with Fernandes' representatives as United prepare a significant midfield overhaul ahead of their Champions League return.
Fernandes joined West Ham from Southampton last summer for approximately £42m and has vindicated that investment with an impressive breakout campaign. The midfielder's form has attracted attention from multiple elite clubs, but his willingness to join United could prove decisive. West Ham have set their asking price at £70m, though their negotiating position has weakened considerably following their descent towards the Premier League's bottom three. The prospect of remaining in the top flight appeals to Fernandes, making Old Trafford an attractive destination.
Midfield Overhaul Priority
United's midfield restructuring is well underway, with Manuel Ugarte expected to depart alongside Casemiro. The club has allocated approximately £150m for summer signings focused on the engine room. While elite targets like Elliot Anderson, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Carlos Baleba remain on the agenda, Fernandes represents a more attainable solution with significant upside potential. Club insiders suggest he could eventually partner or succeed captain Bruno Fernandes in the long term.
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have also shown interest in acquiring the midfielder, but United's direct communication with his camp places them in pole position. Fernandes' omission from Portugal's recent World Cup squad simplifies a potential transfer window move by reducing international fixture complications. The Red Devils also maintain their interest in Atalanta's Ederson, another midfield target on their summer wishlist as they reshape their squad architecture.
With negotiations entering a critical phase, Fernandes' decision could come within weeks as United seek to complete their midfield transformation before pre-season preparations begin.
