Mateus Fernandes: United have special plans for Portuguese ace | OneFootball

Manchester United are looking to replace Casemiro with a Premier League-proven performer.

The Red Devils have already signed Ederson from Atalanta, but he is viewed more as a replacement for Manuel Ugarte, who is also expected to depart Old Trafford this summer.

Elliot Anderson was INEOS’ preferred choice, but Manchester City are threatening to derail those plans.

Sandro Tonali was another name in the frame, but Newcastle’s valuation, coupled with the player’s own wage demands, are proving prohibitive.

Problems galore in race for Mateus Fernandes

This is why the 20-time English league champions pivoted to Mateus Fernandes of West Ham and the thinking was the Hammers’ relegation would make matters easier.

So far, that has not proven to be the case. While the Portuguese midfielder would love to come to United, the London side’s valuation and Real Madrid’s entry into the race have complicated matters.

Teamtalk have now revealed that Paris Saint-Germain have also joined the transfer tussle, and as things stand, the 21-year-old would be open to a switch to the Champions League winners.

Whether this is a ploy to put pressure on United to up the ante remains to be seen. However, the three-time Champions League winners have plans of their own to further entice Mateus Fernandes.

INEOS’ special plans to attract Mateus Fernandes

According to the report, INEOS feel the Portugal international is the perfect successor for Bruno Fernandes, the current captain.

The ex-Southampton star has already revealed that the United skipper is his idol, and the chance to play alongside him and eventually take over his role would be hard to turn down.

“Manchester United have made fresh contacts over a potential move for West Ham star Mateus Fernandes as they continue their search for another midfielder this summer, TEAMtalk understands.

“His strong tackling, progressive passing and composure have attracted widespread interest despite the team’s struggles. United view him as a potential long-term option who could partner or succeed club captain Bruno Fernandes, a player the youngster idolises.

Ball is now on Mateus Fernandes’ court

“However, European champions Paris Saint-Germain could scupper Man Utd’s plans. We understand PSG remain in contact with Fernandes’ representatives and are big admirers of the player, viewing the Portugal youth international as a perfect addition to their midfield.

“Sources say the lure of European Champions League football is of major interest to the ambitious 21-year-old, who is keen on a move to a club competing at the highest level. He is understood to be very open to joining Man Utd or PSG should the right opportunity arise.”

INEOS will hope this lure proves enough to win the race for his services. This effectively means Mateus Fernandes is seen as the versatile midfield option that Carrick craves to add depth to the squad.

However, the search for Casemiro’s successor will continue as neither Ederson nor the West Ham ace are fit to play the exact same role.

Feature image Clive Rose via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social