Mateus Fernandes has now ‘indicated’ he is open to joining Manchester United, paving the way for INEOS to make their opening offer.
The news comes courtesy of Ben Jacobs, who adds that the Red Devils are looking to ‘move quickly’ in their pursuit of the West Ham star, hence initiating talks this week.
Mateus Fernandes: What’s the latest?
United are now gauging how a deal with the Irons may look, with Fernandes valued in the region of £80-85 million.
Their interest is being spearheaded by Director of Football Jason Wilcox, who helped sign the Portuguese starlet for Southampton back in August 2024.
The following year, after the Saints had dropped back down to the Championship, he completed a £42m (£38m upfront plus £4m in add-ons) switch to West Ham, where he has been adding to his Premier League experience throughout 2025/2026.
Appearances Starts Goal contributions Minutes played
72 69 13 5,948
Fernandes’ complete PL record (Transfemarkt)
However, their failure to retain their top-flight status has led to Fernandes seeking another transfer just 10 months into his five-year deal at the London Stadium.
Who else is in the mix for Fernandes?
Jacobs states that Real Madrid have been in contact with Fernandes’ camp, while Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have also made tentative enquiries.
More on Manchester United and Mateus Fernandes.
West Ham midfielder has indicated he is open to joining.
Talks with West Ham have now started as #MUFC try to lower or restructure the £80-85m asking price.
United's director of football Jason Wilcox signed Fernandes for… pic.twitter.com/p6E6dMlpHD
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) June 12, 2026
Alas, you can understand why United are keen to get an agreement wrapped up as swiftly as possible.
They’re already braced for defeat in the race for first-choice midfield target Elliot Anderson, so coming out on top for one of their main alternative options is imperative.
"He's an immensely talented player"
Nuno Espirito Santo on Mateus Fernandes 🌟 pic.twitter.com/1jSirNUaMq
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 20, 2026
Previously, the one-capped Portuguese youngster revealed that Bruno Fernandes was his footballing idol, which may be contributing to his decision-making.
He told A Bola: “My role model? The biggest reference right now is Bruno [Fernandes], because of the player he already is.
“Even back in my time at Sporting, I used to watch him and try to learn. He plays in the same league as me, has a lot of experience with the national team and in the Premier League. I really try to study him. Without a doubt, he stands out.”
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Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.
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