Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Manchester United are now ‘in contact’ with Mateus Fernandes’ representatives.
It comes after a ‘meeting’ between the West Ham board and his camp this week, which set in stone that the youngster’s price tag would be £85 million this summer.
Mateus Fernandes primed for Hammers exit
The Irons shelled out an initial £38m to bring in Fernandes from Southampton following their relegation last August, while pledging an additional £4m in add-ons.
Now that West Ham have themselves fallen victim to the dreaded drop, the coveted star is expected to be on the move for the second successive summer – and he isn’t short of interest.
| Appearances | Starts | Goal contributions | Minutes played |
| 72 | 69 | 13 | 5,948 |
Fernandes’ complete Premier League record (Transfermarkt)
A host of sides have added Fernandes to their shortlists in the lead-up to the window; as well as the Red Devils, last season’s Champions League finalists, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, are among his suitors.
When can United complete a deal for Fernandes?
The 21-year-old was unfortunate to miss out on a call-up to Roberto Martinez’s World Cup squad, meaning he’ll be unable to add to his sole Portugal cap or experience his first major international tournament.
His omission may bode well for United, however, as it will allow them to freely negotiate a deal and complete any potential medical without the World Cup interfering in their pursuit.
That is outstanding 🚀
Mateus Fernandes fires home West Ham's third goal before half-time 🔥
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Ibe16CJu5K
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 24, 2026
Should an agreement be reached, Fernandes would then follow Ederson through the doors at Carrington to become Michael Carrick’s first signings as permanent manager.
A third midfield addition may then hinge on whether Manuel Ugarte is sold, with INEOS actively looking to offload the Uruguayan after a lacklustre two years in M16.
Ajax previously made enquiries over his availability, and Galatasaray are thought to retain a long-standing interest.
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