Manchester United are yet to accelerate their pursuit of Mateus Fernandes to anything other than talks with the player’s camp.
However, Manchester Evening News journalist Steven Railston anticipates that movement is ‘likely next week’.
Transfer state of play: Fernandes movement seems likely next week + Ederson will complete his transfer after the World Cup (there was talk of potentially doing a medical in the USA) #mufc https://t.co/hxseMPByv9
— Steven Railston (@StevenRailston) June 27, 2026
Mateus Fernandes and United: What’s the latest?
That’s because a new financial year begins on July 1, which will encourage clubs to really kickstart their respective transfer windows.
Railston states that both the Red Devils and Tottenham Hotspur could ‘act on their interest’ by igniting formal negotiations with West Ham, who value Fernandes in the region of £80-85 million.
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
Of the clubs interested – including Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain keeping tabs from abroad – only Spurs are willing to commit to such a fee.
United, on the other hand, would look to haggle a lower upfront sum, presumably by agreeing some add-ons for the relegated Irons.
Personal terms between United and Fernandes are said to be as good as done, but that only matters if the two clubs can reach a financial agreement.
Who else might United sign if not Fernandes?
Otherwise, it’s been reported that INEOS would turn to Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, valued at £60m, as a more attainable alternative.
Manuel Ugarte sustaining what appeared to be a serious injury setback overnight is sure to play a part in the rest of the window, as the 25-year-old being sold would’ve paved the way for as many as three midfielders to be signed.
That being said, if it looks as though he’ll be out for the majority of the season, reinforcements will be necessary in the middle of the park to bolster Michael Carrick’s options – particularly ahead of United’s return to the Champions League.
Manuel Ugarte had to be stretchered off after suffering a left knee injury.
Valgus at the knee + a non-contact, pivoting mechanism points towards an ACL tear (+/- meniscus).
A calf ripple was also seen, which typically results in a tear.
Expected Recovery Time: 9-12 months… pic.twitter.com/v3CIt61y4Z
— Physio Scout | Football Injury Analysis (@physioscout) June 27, 2026
Ugarte was stretchered off in the first half of Uruguay’s 1-0 defeat to Spain, meaning they are now heading home after failing to win a group-stage game.
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