Why Mateus Fernandes is desperate to join Manchester United | OneFootball

Manchester United are in pole position to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United.

Heading into the summer, United regarded Elliot Anderson as their preferred midfield target. However, at this point, Manchester City are the only Premier League club to have made formal bids for the Nottingham Forest star.

United are reportedly refusing to enter a bidding war, and are instead targeting players who want to join them. Now, they have accelerated their efforts to sign Mateus Fernandes.

Mateus Fernandes “desperate” for Manchester United move

Earlier today, The Daily Mail claimed that Manchester United are in discussions with Mateus Fernandes‘ camp and it is believed that personal terms will not be a problem.

The report added that United have moved ahead of Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the race for the 21-year-old, who is “rated as one of the most exciting midfield prospects in Europe.”

The Daily Mail journalist Nathan Salt has now shed more light on the situation, suggesting United captain Bruno Fernandes may have played a crucial role in putting his side in such a strong position for the signature of the Portuguese gem.

Speaking on Stretford Paddock YouTube channel, Salt insisted: “The player wants to join Man United. He’s desperate to play with Bruno Fernandes. 

“Bruno Fernandes has sung his praises to the hierarchy. It shouldn’t in theory be a difficult deal to do.”

The West Ham star missed out on an opportunity to play with the United maestro for Portugal as Roberto Martinez decided against including him in his World Cup squad despite hailing him earlier.

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

Manchester United hoping to take advantage of West Ham’s relegation

United have yet to make a formal bid for Fernandes, who is thought to be valued at around £85 million by the Hammers. The Red Devils, meanwhile, have no desire to meet their demands.

Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Sofascore

Salt suggests that West Ham believe they are in a much stronger negotiating position than United think they are. Meanwhile, INEOS believe the London outfit need to sell following their relegation to the Championship. 

In what seems to be a waiting game, United are in a comfortable situation thanks to Fernandes’ preference to move to Old Trafford. Furthermore, the Mancunians have already strengthened their midfield with the signing of Ederson from Atalanta.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

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