West Ham United are edging closer to Premier League safety, now level on points with Nottingham Forest but still 18th in the table with nine games remaining.
Their recent run of form has raised hopes of survival, but whether they stay up or not, the Hammers could face a major challenge in keeping one of their standout stars.
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Mateus Fernandes, who has been central to West Ham’s midfield this season, has attracted serious attention from one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs.
Man Utd Eyeing Fernandes
Mateus Fernandes. (Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Mateus Fernandes. (Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Manchester United have reportedly identified Mateus Fernandes as a “high-priority” target for their summer rebuild, according to Sports Boom.
The Red Devils are keen to strengthen their midfield with a dynamic, box-to-box presence, and Fernandes fits the profile perfectly.
Scouts from Old Trafford have been closely monitoring the 23-year-old, attending fixtures against Liverpool, Bournemouth, and Fulham to evaluate both his defensive discipline and creative influence in high-pressure situations.
Reports suggest that Fernandes has impressed not only with his technical ability but also with his stamina and resilience, ticking key boxes for a club of Manchester United’s stature.
According to sources, the Red Devils plan to continue monitoring the player’s performances throughout the remainder of the season.
Fernandes Thriving at West Ham
Fernandes has flourished under West Ham’s setup, with former manager Vasco Seabra describing him as “a very strong and aggressive player with a great ability to cover a lot of ground.” His energy on and off the ball makes him a quintessential modern midfielder, able to contribute in attack while tracking back defensively.
The Hammers are well aware of his value, and with Fernandes tied to a long-term contract, they hold strong leverage in any potential negotiations.
Should Manchester United or another top club make a formal offer, West Ham are expected to demand between €65 million and €75 million—a figure nearly triple the €25 million they paid to Southampton for his services.
Losing Fernandes would be a huge blow, but it would also provide significant funds to strengthen the squad for the future.