United launch sensational hijack of rival’s move for 42m magician, Wilcox planning “direct talks” to seal deal – report

Manchester United are refusing to give up hope of striking a deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to a new report. Primary Target Fernandes, 21, has emerged as the priority target at Old Trafford for the midfield rebuild, with a £39 million deal already struck to sign Atalanta’s Brazilian enforcer, Ederson. Despite facing successive relegations, first with Southampton and now with West Ham, the Portugal international is one of the most in-demand talents on the market this summer. 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 United are joined by Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the hunt for Fernandes, while Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have both expressed interest. The Red Devils were considered frontrunners after receiving the green light from the player over a switch to M16. However, West Ham’s price tag – believed to be as high as £80 million after signing him for £42m last summer – is far beyond INEOS’s valuation, which is closer to the £60m mark. This has allowed Tottenham Hotspur to storm into the race by signalling their intention to match the Hammers’ demands. Spurs have also held talks with Fernandes’ camp, with the youngster open to moving across London. United make fresh contact Since taking control of the football operation at Old Trafford in 2024, INEOS have steadfastly sought to shift away from the mistakes of the previous hierarchy, who would invariably overpay for signings. Nottingham Forest talisman Elliot Anderson was the primary target to replace Casemiro heading into summer. However, the Tricky Trees wanted a fee in excess of £100 million to let the 23-year-old England international leave the City Ground. This led United to pivot towards Fernandes, with Manchester City eventually agreeing a £116m deal for Anderson, making him one of the best-paid players in the Premier League at the same time. There is a sense of déjà vu with Tottenham’s attempts to hijack United’s pursuit of the Portuguese midfielder, though INEOS appear ready to ensure a different outcome this time. However, Matteo Moretto reveals United, spearheaded by sporting director Jason Wilcox, have made fresh contact with Fernandes’ camp, led by super agent Jorge Mendes. There is a willingness to offer improved terms to convince him to reject Spurs’ advances, and a plan to hold “direct talks” with West Ham. The Italian transfer expert confirms Tottenham have “pressed hard” this week to find a breakthrough, but United are now “trying to get ahead” again, having led the race for weeks prior. Final Thoughts The market for midfielders this summer is as competitive as it is expensive. Virtually every top club in England is on the hunt for reinforcements in the engine room, with Manchester City’s club record deal for Anderson now a benchmark for pricing. While Manchester United may wish to stick to their frugal guns on Fernandes, the cost of an alternative target – such as Bournemouth maestro Alex Scott – is unlikely to be any cheaper. Holding fresh talks with the West Ham star in hopes of staving off Tottenham Hotspur’s interest is likely a recognition of this reality. Featured image Justin Setterfield 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.