Arsenal are making plans to strengthen Mikel Arteta's squad and have identified a Premier League star who Manchester United have already registered their interest in
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 10: West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester United at London Stadium on February 10, 2026 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Mateus Fernandes is a wanted man(Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
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Arsenal have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Mateus Fernandes, who West Ham could be forced to sell. Fernandes, 21, has caught the eye of various clubs this season, despite the Irons being in a relegation battle.
The ex-Southampton midfielder is also in contention to represent Portugal at this summer's World Cup. Fernandes' qualities in both defence and attack make him an attractive prospect for the Premier League's top sides.
United have him on their lengthy midfield shortlist which also includes Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Aurelien Tchouameni. Paris Saint-Germain, who Arsenal will face in this month's Champions League final, have been linked with Fernandes, while Atletico Madrid were battling to sign him before his £38million move to West Ham last summer.
The Times report that Arsenal are now interested in signing him, adding that West Ham would have little choice but to sell Fernandes if they go down to the Championship in order to stay within financial rules. Currently two points from safety, West Ham could be relegated as soon as next Tuesday should results go against them, so a decision on Fernandes' future doesn't look far away.
The Portuguese signed a five-year contract with West Ham, who paid an initial £38m for his signature. The deal could rise to £42m while Southampton have a 15 per cent sell-on clause.
Fernandes' versatility will no-doubt be admired by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, as he can play in multiple positions. The Gunners are also open selling a midfielder to make room for Fernandes.
Christian Norgaard, who's been given just 56 minutes of Premier League football since joining from Brentford, is set to be available this summer. Meanwhile, reports elsewhere claim that United captain Bruno Fernandes has recommended his namesake to the Red Devils' hierarchy.
LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 10: Mateus Fernandes of West Ham in action with Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium on May 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Mateus Fernandes played against Arsenal on Sunday(Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
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In March, Mateus Fernandes opened up on his future plans and made it clear that he wants to win the biggest prizes during his career. He told West Ham's website when asked about his 'personal ambitions': "To play at the World Cup with Portugal, to win the World Cup with Portugal and to be champions of the Premier League. You have to aim high!"
A product of Sporting Lisbon's academy, Fernandes made his international debut earlier this year, having represented Portugal at every age group from under-18 to under-21. He came on as a late substitute for Bruno Fernandes in a friendly against the USA which Portugal won 2-0.
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