Mateus Fernandes: United emerge as the “main obstacle” for Real Madrid | OneFootball

Manchester United are going head-to-head with Real Madrid for the signature of Mateus Fernandes.

Fernandes only joined West Ham United from Southampton last year, but the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship has all but sealed his fate away from east London.

However, West Ham are demanding a significant fee for their midfield gem, and understandably so, given his immense potential and a growing list of high-profile suitors.

Battle on between Manchester United and Real Madrid

It has been widely reported that Mateus Fernandes‘ preferred destination is Manchester United despite interest from Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

However, in recent days, Real Madrid have entered the picture, with Jose Mourinho believed to be keen on signing the Portuguese midfielder.

According to Spanish publication AS (via Sport Witness), Mourinho has identified Fernandes and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez as priority midfield targets. 

It is claimed West Ham have made the 21-year-old available on the market, but Real’s “main obstacle” for his services is United, who are making a “strong push” to sign him.

AS states West Ham are demanding €80 million (£69.2m) for the technically gifted and tenacious number eight. This is an interesting update, given the British press has continuously reported that the Championship side wants around £80m (€92.3m). 

Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Sofascore

Fernandes is currently not part of Portugal’s World Cup squad despite earning plaudits from head coach Roberto Martinez.

“Regarding Mateus Fernandes, what he’s doing now is incredible,” Martinez said at a press conference in March.

Real Madrid willing to offload Aurelien Tchouameni

Should United miss out on Fernandes to Real, they might end up landing one of their “dream” midfield targets in Aurelien Tchouameni.

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Mourinho favours Fernandes over Tchouameni.

Accordingly, the potential sale of the French defensive midfielder is viewed as an ideal solution in the Spanish capital, given it would also strengthen their budget to hand Mourinho the players he wants for his second stint at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

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