Manchester United need new midfielders this summer, and it has been well documented that they have made those arrivals their priority for the transfer window.
Manuel Ugarte has started ten times this season and been on the winning side just once, with his limitations on the ball on show for everyone to see and making it likely he'll be moved on, while Casemiro will depart at the end of his contract too, despite enjoying a fabulous season from a personal point of view.
A whole host of names have been linked with a move to Old Trafford, with Elliot Anderson understood to be the club's top target. But a deal for the England international won't be easy, and now the club are reported to be advancing to get a different deal done instead.
Man Utd Advancing on Mateus Fernandes Deal
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring vs Sunderland
According to reports, Man Utd are 'advancing' on a deal to sign West Ham star Mateus Fernandes to bolster their midfield this summer.
The Portugal international has impressed for the Hammers since his move from Southampton last year, but his future is in doubt with Nuno Espirito Santo's side battling against relegation, and United are ready to pounce to take him to Old Trafford.
Bruno Fernandes is understood to be a huge fan of the 21-year-old, who has admitted that the Man Utd captain is one of his idols, and the decision makers at the club believe that a deal could help to strengthen their midfield for years to come, alongside Kobbie Mainoo.
But they have now been given yet another green light to pursue the deal, with former captain Roy Keane admitting in a recent video that he's a big fan of the talent, and believes that he is already better than all of Carlos Baleba, Alex Scott, Enzo Fernandez, Ryan Gravenberch, and even Casemiro himself.
£50m Fernandes Deal Could Be Perfect
Mateus Fernandes
While United pursue a major money deal for the likes of Anderson, who is expected to cost well in excess of £80m, the club also want at least one other midfielder, who will likely be more on the cheaper side.
Several names have been linked, but Fernandes is in a situation where he could suddenly become available for below market value because of his club's standing, and that could suit Man Utd very well as they look for good value for money.
Having cost West Ham around £40m last summer, a deal worth around £50m could be seen as acceptable for everyone involved, and United will be getting one of the best young midfielders in the league as a result.