West Ham United will not entertain offers for 21-year-old Portuguese international Mateus Fernandes in the summer transfer window unless they receive an eye-watering bid.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, West Ham United playmaker Mateus Fernandes is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are eager to bolster their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder in the upcoming transfer window as they aim to revamp their midfield unit ahead of the 2026/27 season.
However, a summer deal will not be straightforward, as the Hammers are reluctant to part ways with Fernandes, even if they get relegated from the Premier League. While West Ham may have no option but to cash in on Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville, they consider the former Southampton midfielder “a cornerstone” of their long-term project.
Mateus Fernandes and his short English journey so far
Mateus Fernandes has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League since joining West Ham United from Southampton in a deal worth £40 million last summer. The 21-year-old had already risen in prominence during his spell with Southampton, and he has made significant progress this term.
Fernandes has scored five goals and provided four assists in 35 appearances across all competitions for West Ham this term. The youngster’s exploits for the East London club have helped him break into his national side, and his progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, including Manchester United.
What next?
Manchester United’s interest in Mateus Fernandes is understandable. The Red Devils are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder as they prepare for Casemiro’s departure as a free agent after the 2025/26 season. Additionally, Manuel Ugarte has been a liability since joining Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain nearly two years ago.
While Fernandes will not be a like-for-like replacement for Casemiro, his high defensive acumen can help him become an asset for Manchester United. Additionally, with Manchester United chasing Elliot Anderson, Fernandes can become the ideal foil to the Englishman and share game time with Kobbie Mainoo, who has yet to become a finished article..