West Ham duo Matheus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen have both been linked with moves to Manchester United this summer
Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes of West Ham
Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes have both been tipped to join Manchester United
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West Ham director Daniel Kretinsky has outlined the club’s determination to keep their best players amid reports of interest from Manchester United in Mateus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen. United have been credited with an interest in both players as the summer transfer window approaches.
Both Fernandes and Bowen have been heavily linked with moves away from the Hammers this summer following West Ham’s relegation to the Championship.
As a result, United have been mentioned as a potential destination for both players if West Ham are forced to sell their star duo.
However, Kretinsky has made it clear that West Ham have no desire to see some of their star players leave the club this summer.
“We have a very credible strategy,” Kretinsky said in an interview with The Times. “We don’t need to sell the players for financial reasons.
“We are doing this to make sure we are promoted back to the Premier League immediately. That is our only goal.
“Key players are waiting for us. They want to see there is a real chance of keeping the squad together.
“What matters is funding, strategy and consistency. We have spoken to all of them. They need to see that our project is real and serious. Promotion is our only goal.”
Fernandes has emerged as a target for United this summer as they look to strengthen their midfield options ahead of next season.
Reports have speculated that West Ham value Fernandes at around £80million following their relegation from the Premier League, and there have been suggestions that United have moved ahead of Arsenal in the race to sign the midfielder.
Bowen’s future at West Ham has also been uncertain following the club’s relegation, with United and Liverpool mentioned as potential destinations for the 29-year-old, who is under contract at the London Stadium until 2030.
United have made a busy start to the summer transfer window, with a deal already agreed to sign Atalanta star Ederson.
The Reds have agreed to sign Ederson whilst paying a £35million initial fee plus £3.8million in add-ons, to take the total package for the transfer up to £38.8million.
It now remains to be seen where United will look to strengthen their squad next, with another midfielder thought to be on the agenda following the departure of Casemiro on a free transfer.