Mourinho urges Real Madrid to chase West Ham midfielder

Incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has told the club to make the signing of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes a priority. Mourinho’s request comes as Real Madrid look to replace the influence of Toni Kroos. Fernandes, 21, has impressed despite West Ham United’s relegation this season. West Ham United are reportedly asking about €90 million for him, a figure that Diario AS expects to fall. Manchester United and Chelsea have also shown interest in the Portuguese midfielder. Mourinho’s push coincides with the involvement of agent Jorge Mendes, who also represents Fernandes. Mendes, who shares representation of Mourinho, is already negotiating a deal with West Ham United. Mourinho has also identified Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand as an alternative option. Other midfield targets linked to Real Madrid include Paris Saint-Germain duo Vitinha and Joao Neves, as well as Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez. The club’s interest in a new midfielder follows the retirement of Toni Kroos and a perceived need to improve game control. Mourinho’s arrival also puts the signing of Bernardo Silva on the table.