Manchester United leading Europe’s elite in race for Portuguese starlet Mateus Fernandes – report | OneFootball

Fernandes is in high demand [Getty Images]

The future of West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes has emerged as one of the biggest talking points of the current European window, with many of the continent’s biggest sides credited with an interest in the midfielder.

It is almost certain that Fernandes will leave the Hammers this summer following their relegation from the Premier League, with a reported potential fee ranging between €70-100m across various media outlets.

The list of possible suitors for Fernandes is impressive. European champions Paris Saint-Germain are believed to be tracking his situation, as are Real Madrid under the new leadership of José Mourinho, as well as English champions and Champions League finalists Arsenal.

However, according to reports from the likes of The Telegraph and journalist Fabrizio Romano, while others are hesitant due to the high potential cost, Manchester United are the only club which has accelerated interest into concrete negotiations. The Red Devils are keen to rebuild their midfield this summer, particularly after the departure of Brazilian veteran Casemiro, which has led to United entering into direct talks with West Ham.

Speculation has linked United with Fernandes for some time, with the prospect of the 21-year-old linking up with his countryman and idol Bruno Fernandes a possible advantage in the race. Mateus is on record stating his long-standing admiration for Bruno, who was a hero of his when coming through the Sporting academy.

Mateus Fernandes has suffered back-to-back relegations since arriving in English football with Southampton and more recently West Ham, after which he missed out on a spot in Portugal’s World Cup 2026 squad. However, his displays in midfield over the last two seasons caught the eye in England, with Fernandes considered to epitomise the modern midfielder with a varied and complete skillset.

As he approaches his 22nd birthday next month, Fernandes appears to have the world at his feet. United clearly hope Old Trafford will be his destination, but it remains to be seen if some of the continent’s other major clubs will yet have a say in the matter.