Manchester United officials are excited as they now believe they will complete a deal to sign a £100m-rated star this summer, according to journalist Shaun Connolly.
Man United quickly agreed a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta ahead of the summer transfer window officially opening on Monday, but things have slowed down since the 2026 World Cup got underway a week ago.
The Red Devils may have completed the first part of their midfield rebuild following the exit of Casemiro, but with Manuel Ugarte expected to go too, there is at least one, and potentially two, more arrivals to come in the position.
Finding players to complement and bring the best out of Kobbie Mainoo is the major transfer priority, but they are considering new signings in other positions too.
A new goalkeeper could arrive if Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana end up leaving Old Trafford this summer, while they could also look at the left-back, left-winger and striker positions if players like Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee leave.
Left-back seems more guaranteed following interest in Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall, with little competition for Luke Shaw after United reportedly decided that Patrick Dorgu is more suited to playing further forward.
Man United ‘Confident’ of Sealing Mateus Fernandes Deal
via Reuters
With number one target and Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson seemingly out of reach, due to his price tag and preference to join Manchester City, United have been forced to turn their attentions elsewhere to land their new midfielders.
The Red Devils have now identified West Ham star Mateus Fernandes as their leading target in the position, following the Irons’ relegation to the Championship.
The 21-year-old is keen on a move to Old Trafford, as Connolly reports, but agreeing a fee with the Hammers could prove to be a major hurdle.
Fabrizio Romano reported previously that West Ham ideally wanted £100m for the Portugal international, but that a deal around £85m could be more realistic, especially given they are now a Championship club.
According to Connolly, despite the lack of progress, United staff are confident of eventually completing a deal for Fernandes, and they are excited about the potential addition.
Patience will be required while negotiations continue between all parties, although United do face the threat of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain firming up their interest in the player too.
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Mateus Fernandes is a Future Superstar
via Reuters
The price tag for Fernandes may be big, but he has shown in the past two seasons why he looks destined for the very top.
It would be easy for a player of 20 or 21 years of age to go missing or be anonymous in two Premier League teams fighting against relegation, but instead he has arguably been the best player for both Southampton and West Ham in those situations.
The Portugal international has shown his midfield versatility too, proving he is capable of playing as a ‘6’, ‘8’ or ’10’ during his two years in the Premier League, although he appears strongest in the ‘8’.
Fernandes dreams of linking up with Portuguese compatriot Bruno at Old Trafford, and he might just get his wish if the Red Devils can advance in negotiations in the coming weeks.