Manchester United reluctant to match West Ham’s demands for Mateus Fernandes | OneFootball

Manchester United have held talks to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.

However, The Athletic reports that the Red Devils are not ready to meet their £80 million asking price and are ready to play the waiting game.

The Hammers may be forced to lower their demands, especially after their relegation to the Championship.

With Casemiro bidding farewell, United are in the market for midfield reinforcements. They have already carried out extensive checks on Fernandes.

Discussions have taken place regarding the financial aspects of a potential move, including the transfer fee and personal terms.

However, negotiations are still at an early stage, with United yet to make a formal offer to West Ham.

The 21-year-old has only been at West Ham for a year after joining from Southampton in an initial £38m deal last summer.

While he could be on the move again, the Portuguese midfielder’s long-term contract puts West Ham in a strong negotiating position.

United are reluctant to match the asking price. They’re still interested, but there’s a belief that West Ham could lower their demands as the transfer window progresses.

The Red Devils are now keeping a close eye on the situation rather than rushing into negotiations.

Fernandes was a bright spark for West Ham last season, contributing five goals and five assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.

Despite his performances for the Hammers, he was left out of Roberto Martinez’s Portugal squad for the upcoming World Cup – a decision that stunned many people.