**By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist ([Follow on X](https://x.com/GONZObignose))**
Manchester United appear ready to focus their attention on signing West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes after Manchester City’s reported £106 million bid for Elliott Anderson.
Anderson had been believed to be high on Manchester United’s shortlist, but it would seem they are unwilling to match the huge valuation being driven by their city rivals.
As a result, Fernandes has reportedly moved towards the top of United’s wanted list, with West Ham continuing to demand £85 million for the Portuguese midfielder.
United Won’t Have It All Their Own Way
--------------------------------------
Manchester United are unlikely to get a free run at the 21-year-old.
New Real Madrid boss José Mourinho is believed to be keen on taking his compatriot to the Bernabéu, whilst Paris Saint-Germain are also thought to be monitoring the situation.
From a West Ham perspective, it could hardly be shaping up much better considering we have to sell the player.
If some of Europe’s wealthiest clubs genuinely enter the race, the Hammers could find themselves in the ideal position of having multiple bidders competing for their most saleable asset.
West Ham Hold Strong Hand
-------------------------
The other factor working in West Ham’s favour is timing.
Unlike Anderson, [Fernandes](https://www.claretandhugh.info/80m-or-get-lost-west-ham-send-brutal-message-over-mateus-fernandes/) is not involved at the World Cup, making negotiations significantly easier should talks accelerate over the coming weeks.
By contrast, Anderson is currently preparing for what is expected to be a prominent role in England’s campaign.
All of which leaves West Ham in a strong position.
The club have already made it clear they will not entertain cut-price offers and, with interest continuing to grow, there appears little reason for them to soften their stance.