After securing an impressive third in the Premier League, Manchester United are keen to keep moving forward under Michael Carrick.
The ex-United, West Ham and Tottenham midfielder has been handed the reins permanently at Old Trafford after turning the Red Devils into the Premier League's most in-form team during his interim spell.
The Old Trafford club are back in the Champions League and have already identified a number of transfer targets as they seek to strengthen their squad for the next 12 months.
The Red Devils only played 40 games last campaign and a much-busier fixture schedule in 2026-27 means that greater strength in depth is needed.
Carrick will also be keen to make his starting XI stronger too.
Man Utd 'will end up signing Mateus Fernandes'
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring vs Sunderland
One player on United's radar is West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
The Hammers are likely to sell the ex-Southampton man this summer following their relegation from the top flight on the final day of the season.
An £80m price tag has been placed on Fernandes. Journalist Chris Winterburn believes United will 'end up signing the player'. The 21-year-old has the 'potential to reach the elite level' and is attracting interest from several clubs.
Earlier reports indicated the player had given priority to the Red Devils. However, Jose Mourinho is keen to sign the player for Real Madrid after the ex-Chelsea and Tottenham boss was confirmed as manager of the Spanish club.
Fernandes is seen by United as somebody who could rotate with Kobbie Mainoo as the Red Devils make plans to have multiple strong options in place across the pitch.
West Ham unlikely to drop asking price
West Ham United Midfielder Mateus Fernandes in Premier League Actionvia Reuters
West Ham's negotiating position has been weakened by their relegation but the interest from other clubs will make it difficult for the Red Devils to seal a transfer for less than £80m.
Alongside Madrid, Paris-Saint Germain and Arsenal are also linked with the player. The Irons need to raise over £100m from player sales following their relegation.
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They signed Fernandes from Southampton for £42m last summer and turning a big profit on him will ease their financial worries as they prepare for the Championship.
Even at £80m, Fernandes could prove to be a smart long-term investment from United.
Still aged 21, he has his best years ahead of him. West Ham's relegation could present the Red Devils with their best chance to sign the player but they will need to fend off some of Europe's other top clubs to get the deal done.
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