Arsenal could be set to miss out on one of their reported midfield targets this summer, with Manchester United increasingly confident of securing a deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
The Portugal international has emerged as one of the most sought-after young midfielders in the Premier League following an impressive individual campaign despite West Ham’s relegation to the Championship.
Fernandes was one of the few bright spots in a difficult season for the Hammers and his performances have attracted interest from several major European clubs.
Arsenal have been linked with the 21-year-old in recent weeks as Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta continue to assess midfield reinforcements ahead of next season.
However, reports suggest Manchester United have now moved into pole position.
The Red Devils are said to have already opened discussions with Fernandes’ representatives and are working towards submitting an official proposal to West Ham.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester United are in direct contact with the player’s camp as they attempt to gain an advantage over rival suitors.
According to multiple reports, Fernandes has become one of United’s priority targets after the club cooled their interest in Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson due to the enormous fee being demanded.
Manchester United are believed to value Fernandes as a key addition to Michael Carrick’s squad as they prepare for a return to Champions League football next season.
The latest reports claim United are increasingly confident that a deal can be completed.
West Ham are understood to value Fernandes at around £80 million following his outstanding season at the London Stadium.
Despite the club’s relegation, the Hammers are not expected to allow one of their prized assets to leave cheaply.
Fernandes only arrived from Southampton last summer but quickly established himself as one of the team’s most important players.
The midfielder’s technical quality, athleticism and ability to operate in several central roles have made him an attractive option for clubs searching for long-term solutions in midfield.
Arsenal’s interest has been widely reported, although the Gunners may be reluctant to enter a bidding war at the figures currently being discussed.
Arteta already boasts significant midfield depth through Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino and Ethan Nwaneri, but the club remain open to strengthening if the right opportunity arises.
For now, though, Manchester United appear to have gained the upper hand.
Unless Arsenal decide to accelerate their pursuit or West Ham lower their demands, Fernandes could be heading to Old Trafford rather than the Emirates Stadium ahead of the new campaign.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as negotiations continue and one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer battles moves closer to a conclusion.