West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes has been heavily linked with a transfer away from the London Stadium this summer.
Fernandes only signed for the Hammers in a £40 million deal from Southampton last year, but he could soon be on the move again.
The Portugal international has established himself as one of West Ham’s best players and he could easily represent a top-six team.
Manchester City have now reportedly joined Manchester United and Liverpool in the race to sign Fernandes in the next few months.
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Man City’s advantage in Mateus Fernandes transfer race
Man Utd were considered the leading contenders to sign Fernandes from West Ham this summer for multiple reasons.
The Red Devils are expected to pursue at least two midfielders, and Bruno Fernandes has recommended his compatriot Mateus.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool have also shown interest in the West Ham playmaker, and now Man City have joined the race.
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According to Apito Final, City have been “closely following” Fernandes ahead of the summer transfer window.
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West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring his side's third goal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Sunderland at London Stadium on January 24, 2026 in London, England.
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images
They consider him a potential long-term replacement for Bernardo Silva, who will be leaving at the end of the season.
City also have a significant advantage over Man Utd and Liverpool due to an existing relationship between a board member and Fernandes.
Sporting director Hugo Viana held the same role at Sporting CP for several years, including during Fernandes’ time at the club.
This could be a key factor in Fernandes’ impending decision about his future, with multiple clubs eyeing him up.
Of course, the 23-year-old could choose to stay in East London for another season, but that does look unlikely at this stage.
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