Jose Mourinho holds discussions with Real Madrid hierarchy over 21-year-old midfielder | OneFootball

The midfield is a department where Real Madrid are making conscious efforts to sign a big name – one who can bring creativity, consistency and control to the department.

Enzo Fernandez is one of the club’s top targets on that front, but Chelsea are demanding a fee well north of €100 million for the player rendering that deal complicated.

A second practical option has emerged in recent days, one that Jose Mourinho reportedly prefers. The player in question is Mateus Fernandes, West Ham’s 21-year-old midfielder.

Internal talks held

As reported by Fabrizio Romano in his latest update, Real Madrid’s higher management and Jose Mourinho had a meeting last night where they discussed the project, next season’s ideas and transfer decisions.

Real Madrid discussed Fernandes’ signing. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Mateus Fernandes was one of the names discussed in the said meeting as the club and management debated on his signing.

The conversation boiled down to there being interest in him from Real Madrid’s side, especially from Jose Mourinho, who deeply appreciates him.

While that is the case, however, he is not the only name on Real Madrid’s list to reinforce the midfield and there are thus no concrete talks as matters stand.

A hefty price

Signing Fernandes from West Ham will not come as a cheap operation in any sense, especially given that the Premier League side are demanding a sum of €90 million for the young midfielder.

West Ham demand €90 million. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The 21-year-old star’s current contract with Real Madrid runs until 2030, handing West Ham the upper hand in any negotiations as they are in complete control of his future.

Arsenal and Manchester United are both active in his pursuit and are positioned as Real Madrid’s biggest competitors on that front.

Needless to say, the situation could well evolve into a bidding war.