Manchester United and Real Madrid are reportedly both keen on Mateus Fernandes this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Jose Mourinho is said to have mentioned the West Ham midfielder’s name to Real Madrid as he prepares to return to the Bernabeu for a second spell as manager.
However, Man Utd are also interested in Fernandes, according to Romano, who has posted on X about the Portugal international’s situation.
“Manchester United remain keen on Mateus Fernandes with more clubs also in the race. José Mourinho mentioned his name to Real Madrid yesterday, more Premier League clubs showing interest. Price tag around £85m,” Romano posted.
Is Fernandes really worth £85m?
That price looks pretty high. The 21 year old is still pretty inexperienced at the top level.
It was previously reported that the Hammers paid around £40m to sign Fernandes from Southampton a year ago, as per BBC Sport’s report at the time.
While Fernandes has impressed with both Southampton and West Ham, he’s still only played two seasons in the Premier League, finishing both of those campaigns getting relegated.
It’s obvious from watching Fernandes that he has a big future in the game. But it remains to be seen if clubs will really pay quite that much money for him at this stage of his career.
West Ham’s weak negotiating position
West Ham’s relegation to the Championship might also weaken their negotiating position. This is a player who will surely push to be allowed a big move this summer so as to avoid playing in English football’s second tier.
Fernandes looks like he could be a fine addition to the United squad, as they look in need of more options in midfield after Casemiro’s departure at the end of his contract.
The bottom line
£85m is a lot for a player who has been relegated twice in two Premier League seasons.
But Fernandes is 21. He’s Portuguese. He’s got a big future. And two of the biggest clubs in the world are fighting over him.
Mourinho mentioned his name to Real Madrid. United are keen. More Premier League clubs are showing interest.
West Ham hold the cards but not for long. The player will push to leave. The price might drop.
For now, the asking price is £85m. Whether anyone pays it is another question entirely.
