Manchester United near £80m deal for Mateus Fernandes

Manchester United are poised to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes for a fee reported around £80 million. The deal would leave Real Madrid without the player Jose Mourinho identified as his top midfield target. Real Madrid have already added Bernardo Silva to their squad. The club continue to seek midfield reinforcements after the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Arsenal also expressed interest in Fernandes but have not matched United’s offer.

Real Madrid eye Manchester City defenders for Mourinho

Mourinho has highlighted Fernandes as a player capable of adding a different dimension to the midfield. Fernandes, a Portuguese international, is known for his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, covering large areas of the pitch and providing physical intensity. Manchester United’s willingness to meet West Ham United’s valuation gives them a significant advantage over rival clubs. Real Madrid are taking a measured approach, preferring to prioritise other areas of the squad rather than meet the reported £80 million price tag. The Premier League side therefore appears set to secure the midfielder’s signature. Photo credit: Julian Finney.