By Rosemary Ugiomoh
Manchester United are reportedly turning up the heat on a move for West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes as summer approaches. The 21-year-old Portugal midfielder has been one of West Ham’s bright spots this season, and he also impressed earlier during his stint at Southampton.
United have Fernandes high on their shortlist as they look to bring in two new midfielders. Atalanta’s Ederson is another name they’re pushing for alongside him. The push makes sense with Casemiro set to leave when his deal ends and Manuel Ugarte falling out of favor.
West Ham’s situation adds urgency. They dropped 1-0 to Arsenal over the weekend and sit 18th with two games left, two points from safety. If they go down, holding onto a player like Fernandes looks tough. He’s already showing Premier League quality, and that’s why clubs are circling.
Former Southampton man Jo Tessem said it plainly last year after Fernandes left Saints following their relegation: he’s playing, passing, and moving like a top-flight midfielder every week. “Clubs aren’t going to let that go,” Tessem told the BBC.
United’s midfield rebuild is clearly a priority. Fernandes fits the bill as a young talent with upside, though Sky notes other targets like Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba are also in the mix. Anderson is seen as the dream option, but City are rumored to be ahead in that race.
