Manchester United are 'advancing' on a deal to sign West Ham United midfield star Mateus Fernandes this summer, according to Sports Boom.
The Red Devils are planning a major overhaul of their midfield department this summer, with Brazil star Casemiro set to depart at the end of his contract, while Manuel Ugarte is also expected to leave, and there are question marks over the long-term future of both Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes.
A host of names have been linked with a move to Old Trafford as a result, but it has now emerged that they are eyeing one young star as a 'high-priority target'.
Man Utd 'Advancing' on Mateus Fernandes
West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring vs Sunderland
According to a report, United have been paying close attention to the Portugal Under-21 international this season following his move to east London from Southampton in the summer, and they have been very impressed.
Described as 'exceptional', the technically sound midfield sensation has been one of the Hammers' standout performers so far in this campaign, despite the club battling against relegation in the Premier League.
His form has seen him grab the attention of a number of clubs around the top end of the division, and Man Utd are understood to have watched him regularly this season, in particular against Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Fulham, where the scouts that were present were happy with his defensive contributions and his ability to cover ground.
It's also stated that a 'leak' from the club has suggested that they will continue to watch him until the end of the campaign, and that they also made contact with West Ham about a deal during the January transfer window.
Fernandes Will Cost Big Money
Mateus Fernandes
After West Ham sealed a deal worth £42m including add-ons, the player signed a long-term contract until 2030, which has given the club huge leverage in any negotiations.
Should the club be relegated then it may affect things more, in the same way it did for Southampton last summer. But West Ham have slapped a €65-75m (£56-64m) asking price on his head in case they don't, although they would prefer to hold on to him for another year in the hope that his performances can push the value up to around €100m (£87m).
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