Mateus Fernandes on Manchester United’s radar ahead of summer rebuild

Mateus Fernandes on Manchester United’s radar ahead of summer rebuild

Manchester United have identified West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes as a summer transfer target, with Michael Carrick’s side preparing for a significant reshaping of their midfield following their return to the UEFA Champions League.

United considered a move for Fernandes last summer when Southampton were relegated, but ultimately opted against it. Twelve months on, Old Trafford’s recruitment staff are once again monitoring him closely.

Fernandes joined West Ham last August for an initial £38 million, with a further £4 million in add-ons, making him the club’s third most expensive signing.

Despite a difficult campaign at club level, Fernandes’ personal reputation has continued to grow.

Dubbed as the ‘ultimate Premier League midfielder’, he recently broke into the full Portugal squad after captaining the under-21s, making his senior debut as a substitute in a friendly against the United States. He is now targeting a place in Roberto Martínez’s plans for this summer’s World Cup.

West Ham are determined to keep hold of Fernandes regardless of their Premier League fate. Should Nuno Espirito Santo’s side avoid relegation, the Hammers will resist any approach.

If they go down, however, their ability to retain one of their most valuable assets becomes considerably more complicated, and United are positioning themselves accordingly, .