Mourinho’s €90m-rated midfield target will arrive only if Real Madrid sell first | OneFootball

Mateus Fernandes continues to be linked with Real Madrid, but any move for the highly-rated midfielder appears dependent on events elsewhere in the squad.

As reported before, Fernandes is one of several midfielders being monitored by Real Madrid following Jose Mourinho’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

The Portuguese coach is believed to have discussed the player’s profile during conversations with the club’s hierarchy, placing him among the names being evaluated for the future.

However, despite the growing speculation, the operation is far from advanced for multiple reasons.

Real Madrid not pushing for Mateus Fernandes yet

While Fernandes remains on Real Madrid’s radar, there is currently no indication that negotiations are close, and one of the main reasons is the player’s valuation.

Despite West Ham United suffering relegation from the Premier League, the English club is demanding around €90 million for the midfielder. 

That figure is viewed as quite significant, especially for a player who is not currently considered an urgent priority within Real Madrid’s recruitment plans.

Mateus Fernandes is also linked to Manchester United. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Furthermore, competition is another factor.

As reported before, Manchester United are currently leading the race for Fernandes and appear to be in the strongest position to complete a deal should formal negotiations accelerate this summer.

For Real Madrid, entering a bidding war for a player valued at €90 million is not currently viewed as a logical decision.

That is why the club continue to assess multiple midfield options rather than focusing exclusively on one target.

Squad exits will be key

Perhaps the biggest obstacle is Real Madrid’s current squad situation.

The club already have considerable depth in midfield and are aware that further additions will likely require departures first.

On that note, Jose Felix Diaz, via Madrid Zone, reports that any serious move for Fernandes would almost certainly depend on creating space within the squad.

Mateus Fernandes is not currently a top priority for Real Madrid. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

On that note, one player widely expected to leave is Dani Ceballos.

The Spanish midfielder has been heavily linked with an exit throughout the summer and appears increasingly likely to move on before the transfer window closes. 

Lastly, there is also uncertainty surrounding Eduardo Camavinga.

Although Real Madrid continue to rate the French international highly, his performances over the last two seasons have generated debate. 

The club still view him as an important asset, but his future has occasionally become the subject of speculation as the squad evolves under Mourinho.

For now, neither situation has been resolved, and as long as there is no resolution, Real Madrid cannot move forward.