United ahead of Liverpool in race to sign 21-yo wizard after two years of intense scouting – report

Manchester City are expected to beat Manchester United to the signing of Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. City have had their opening bid for Anderson rejected, but their pursuit of the England midfielder remains ongoing. United, meanwhile, are now focusing on signing Mateus Fernandes. A report suggests the Red Devils are the frontrunners in this race.  Manchester United ahead of Liverpool According to A Bola (via Sport Witness), Liverpool have now joined Manchester United in the race for Mateus Fernandes, who appears ready to leave West Ham United following their relegation to the Championship. It is claimed that both northwest clubs have been closely monitoring Fernandes for around two years. The Portuguese newspaper, however, claims that United are slightly ahead of Liverpool at this stage.  Michael Carrick reportedly wants to transform his side’s midfield and considers the 21-year-old as one of the players capable of helping reshape that area of the squad. It is understood that Liverpool remain attentive to the situation and could move if United fail to make progress. West Ham’s asking price for Mateus Fernandes The 5’10” midfield magician’s versatility, passing, vision, and tenacity make him one of the most well-rounded young midfielders on the continent. As such, the Hammers are keen to make the most of the hype surrounding the Portuguese playmaker. Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances36 Minutes per game84 Touches58.9 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes37.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.9 Goals and assists 7 Source: Sofascore According to A Bola, West Ham want a fee close to €80m for the former Sporting CP gem. United, however, are only willing to spend up to €55m. It has been previously reported that Fernandes wants to move to Old Trafford. Still, if United fail to find an agreement with West Ham, the likes of Liverpool may try to swoop in. Featured image Clive Rose via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!