Manchester United have already made contact regarding a potential deal.
Manchester United are reportedly in pole position to sign one of the most exciting midfielders in Europe, after two clubs – including Real Madrid – have dampened interest in the £80m player.
Those working behind the scenes at Old Trafford want to bring in at least two midfielders this summer, as they will have to replace the departing Casemiro.
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Earlier this month, United reached an agreement on the signing of Ederson. He is expected to join Michael Carrick’s side from Serie A club Atalanta in a deal worth £35 million plus 4 million in bonuses.
In addition to Ederson, several names have been linked with a transfer this summer, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. However, he looks more likely to end up at Manchester City in a transfer that could be a British record.
Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali also keep popping up in the reports, but there seems to be more substance in a deal to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
In fact, United are leading the race for Fernandes. Real Madrid, who have also been following the player, “expect” him to join the ranks at Old Trafford.
Arsenal have also cooled down their interest in the Portuguese.
The report further suggests that Fernandes is priced at around £80 million by West Ham, but United will be hoping to “find a compromise” after West Ham were relegated to the Championship.
How good is Mateus Fernandes? And what will he bring to Manchester United’s midfield?
Despite West Ham’s relegation, Fernandes was one of the highest-rated midfielders in the Premier League last season in terms of distance travelled.
He is also known for his defensive actions and tough tackles. For example, during the 2025/26 season, he completed more tackles and interceptions than Casemiro, as well as winning more duels.
The 21-year-old, who primarily operates as a progressive eight, also had significantly more successful dribbles per 90 minutes than the Brazilian – demonstrating his technical prowess in tight spaces.
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