United are aiming to position themselves at the front of the queue for the ‘ultimate Premier League midfielder’, who has Old Trafford as his preferred destination. Fernandes is eager to join club captain and compatriot Bruno Fernandes, whom he has long cited as a footballing idol.
While United are keen to conclude business early and see off competition, there is still much work to do. Despite their drop into the Championship, West Ham remain determined not to lose their prized asset on the cheap.
The Hammers are holding out for a fee close to £80m—double the £38m they paid Southampton just last summer—in hopes of sparking a bidding war with rival suitors such as Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite playing in a struggling West Ham side, Fernandes demonstrated his ability to dictate games even under intense pressure. His tactical flexibility, defensive tenacity, and incisive progressive passing have convinced United that he is far more than a market gamble.
With personal terms not expected to be a barrier, United’s upcoming formal proposal will test West Ham’s resolve. Relegation means the Hammers will eventually need to balance the books via sales, and United are ready to ensure Fernandes ends the summer in their famous red shirt.