Michael Carrick eyes Sporting academy gem for 2026/27 | OneFootball

Manchester United is planning to strengthen the midfield with the departure of Casemiro, whose contract ends at the end of the season and is expected to leave the club. In this context, the Red Devils have already set their sights on Mateus Fernandes to replace him in the defensive position next season.

He is being seen as an option to replace the Brazilian footballer in the Red Devils' midfield, according to the British press.

The possible transfer could also be influenced by the Hammers' fight to stay in the Premier League, as a potential relegation could facilitate an agreement. The young player - who convinced Luís Guilherme to join the Lions - has scored three goals and provided three assists in 27 games this season.

With the need to renew the midfield sector, United continues to look at various options in the market to replace Casemiro, while preparing for the next season under the technical leadership of Michael Carrick and with a deep reconstruction plan for the team.

Having completed much of his training at the Alcochete Academy, Mateus Fernandes - valued at 32 million euros - played 10 matches for the main team of Sporting between 2022/23 and 2024/25, in which he scored one goal and provided one assist. In the summer of 2024, the athlete moved to Southampton for 15 million euros, in a deal that, with bonuses, could still rise to 20 million.

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