News Focus
- Manchester United lead the chase for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes
- West Ham demand £80m but may reduce price due to financial troubles after relegation
- Real Madrid, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also interested in the Portuguese star
- Hammers must raise over £100m from player sales this summer window
- Everton eyeing Argentinian forward Taty Castellanos as West Ham exodus begins
Manchester United have moved ahead of rival clubs in the battle to capture Mateus Fernandes. The Red Devils want to bring the West Ham United midfielder to Old Trafford. They hope to strengthen Michael Carrick’s squad before the new season starts.
Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain all want the 25-year-old. However, sources say United have made the first serious approach. The club is ready to open talks with the Hammers.
West Ham want £80 million for the player. But they might have to accept less money. The club dropped down to the Championship last month. They lost £104.2 million last year. Now they must sell players for over £100 million this summer to balance their books.
Fernandes is one of their most valuable assets. He moved from Southampton to West Ham for £38 million last summer. Many big clubs are watching him now.
United need new midfielders urgently. Casemiro left for nothing at the end of his contract. The club has already bought Éderson from Atalanta. They see Fernandes as the next key signing.
Most people think United is his top choice if he stays in England. But Real Madrid could try to sign him. José Mourinho is their new manager again. United do not want to lose this player to their old boss.
Arsenal believe the £80 million price is too expensive. United feel more positive about the deal. They also like Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. But Manchester City will probably pay more for him than United can. Fernandes fits their budget better.
Many stars will leave West Ham after relegation. Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville also have many offers. Summerville might become more famous if he plays well for the Netherlands at the World Cup. Meanwhile, Everton want Argentinian striker Taty Castellanos.