Mateus Fernandes is one of the most sought-after players in the world right now. He has been linked with a host of top clubs – recently, however, a development has arisen regarding his next move.
When Real Madrid registered an interest in the player, the race for his signature looked to be over. Los Blancos are the biggest football club in the world – when they come knocking, they are very hard to turn down.
In this case, however, it appears to not be so. According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) from journalist Shaun Connolly, Fernandes’ ‘preference’ would be a move to Manchester United.
I’m advised that Mateus Fernandes is one of several players that Mourinho admires, but he is not a priority presently. A player of his ability/potential has many European suitors, and a Madrid approach wouldn't be surprising. Still, there are questions about valuation.
— Shaun Connolly (@shaunconnolly85) June 9, 2026
Of course, there are more than just Madrid and United in the hunt for Fernandes’ services. Teams such as Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and PSG are also interested – in fact, Arsenal and Chelsea have gone as far as to make official contact with the player’s representatives. As such, interest in the Portuguese international is at an all-time high.
Nevertheless, Fernandes will not be an inexpensive acquisition. His current club, West Ham United, have slapped a price tag on his head of no less than £85 million [via Fabrizio Romano on YouTube].
Still, there is plenty of room for negotiation. West Ham were relegated to the Championship at the end of the season, severely limiting their existing bargaining power. He is, however, under contract at the London Stadium until the summer of 2030 – this might give the Hammers a bit of sway.
Mateus Fernandes 2025/26 Premier League passing stats
Assists Passes Completed% Long Passes Crosses
M. Fernandes 4 1,562 87% 179 29
A consummate, composed passer of the ball, Fernandes isn’t the sort of player who will routinely open up defences with one swift movement. Instead, he is a useful player for keeping the ball alive in dangerous areas.
He boasts a passing completition percentage of 87% in the Premier League last season, which is very impressive for a player who often finds himself in such advanced areas. Furthermore, it is refreshing to see such a high level of in-game concentration from a young footballer – it is important to remember that he is just 21 years of age.
What would Mateus Fernandes bring to Manchester United?
An adaptable player who can cover a range of roles, Fernandes is comfortable functioning as a central midfielder, a defensive midfielder and as an attacking midfielder.
His high-energy approach, coupled with his underrated defensive instincts and composure on the ball, make him an incredibly pliable midfielder.
With that being said, it is difficult to see exactly where he fits into the team. He won’t be able to fill the gaps left behind by the departing Casemiro – this role will be taken on by Manuel Ugarte, for better or for worse.
The other two midfield slots are taken up by Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo. He must unseat one of these two players in order to carve out a regular spot in United’s first team – given their immense quality, this will be no mean feat.