West Ham United are bracing themselves for a summer move from Manchester United for brilliant midfielder Mateus Fernandes following a major development at Old Trafford today. The summer signing has been a massive part of the Hammers improvement under Nuno as the team have closed the relegation gap from 7 to a single point.
Reports suggest that United are set to allow Casemiro to join Inter Miami, owned by David Beckham, at the end of the season. Up until now, there had been uncertainty over whether the Brazilian would remain in Manchester, but his expected departure clears the path for a new midfield signing—and Fernandes is believed to be high on their shortlist.
The 21-year-old West Ham midfielder received his first senior call-up to Portugal national team last week but did not feature in the 0-0 bore draw with Mexico national team yesterday. However, Portugal boss Roberto Martínez was quick to praise the Hammers £38m man, describing him as “an outstanding prospect.”
Fernandes is believed to be a serious transfer target for Manchester United
Midfield shortlist emerges at Old Trafford
Fernandes is highly regarded at Old Trafford and is understood to be one of four targets being considered as a replacement for Casemiro. Also on that list are Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest and Adam Wharton, who earned another England national team cap against Uruguay national team on Friday.
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Another name linked is Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United, with Fabrizio Romano claiming the midfielder is firmly in contention should Michael Carrick be handed the job permanently. Romano posted on social media earlier today:
“Manchester United have Sandro Tonali very high on their shortlist for June, as reported. The player would be open to the move.”
For West Ham, the growing interest in Fernandes is an unwelcome distraction. With the midfielder’s stock rising rapidly, a summer transfer battle could now be looming irrespective of which division we’re in next season.