Manchester United have confirmed that Jadon Sancho is set to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract. Sancho exit It would be an enormous understatement to say Sancho was a disappointing signing for United. After two years of chasing him, United finally secured his services in the summer of 2021 from Borussia Dortmund, in a deal worth £73m. At the time, he was regarded as one of the best wingers in world football and the expectations on him were high. The transition to United proved anything but smooth. Plagued by difficulties both on and off the pitch, Sancho then fell out spectacularly with Erik ten Hag. The result? United loaned him back to Dortmund in 2024, where he spent the remainder of the campaign. He also had a loan spell at Chelsea, who opted against their obligation to sign him by paying United a penalty fee of £5m. He spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Aston Villa but much like Chelsea, he has not pulled up any trees at the Birmingham outfit. It was expected that United would release him, rather than trigger the one-year extension clause on his contract. This has now been confirmed by the club. United have said in a statement, “Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia and Jadon Sancho are among those departing, as their contracts come to an end.” “Jadon Sancho arrived at Old Trafford in 2021 and was also part of the 2023 Carabao Cup-winning side. The winger played 83 times for the club before he returned to Borussia Dortmund on loan and also made temporary moves to Chelsea and Aston Villa.” “Everyone at the club would like to thank Casemiro, Tyrell and Jadon for their contributions to Manchester United and wish them the very best of luck for the future.” Academy updates United have also announced that there are some academy stars who will leave, with others in line for new contracts. Goalkeeper Dermot Mee will be offered a fresh deal, while academy trio Sonny Aljofree, James Bailey and Malachi Sharpe will part ways with the Red Devils this summer. United add, “The Academy is proud of all of our departing young players throughout the age groups. Each of them will be supported in securing contracts at new clubs, provided with a bespoke aftercare programme, and will always have a lifelong association with Manchester United.” “Professional Development Phase defenders Albert Mills and Dante Plunkett are expected to sign their first professional terms with United in July.” CategoryPositionPlayers U24 (as of 30 June)GoalkeepersElyh Harrison, Solomon Honor, Senne Lammens, Dermot Mee*, Will Murdock, Radek Vitek DefendersHarry Amass, Dan Armer, Patrick Chinazaeikpere Dorgu, Tyler Fredricson, Ayden Heaven, Louis Jackson, Jaydan Kamason, Diego Leon, Reece Munro, Habeeb Ogunneye, James Overy, Leroy Yoro MidfieldersToby Collyer, Jacob Devaney, Jayce Fitzgerald, Jack Fletcher, Tyler Fletcher, Dan Gore, Amir Ibragimov, Sekou Kone, Kobbie Mainoo, Finley McAllister, Jack Moorhouse, Jim Thwaites ForwardsAmad, Gabriele Biancheri, Ethan Ennis, Enzo Kana-Biyik, Shea Lacey, Samuel Lusale, Bendito Mantato, Ashton Missin, Victor Musa, Chido Obi, Benjamin Sesko, James Scanlon, Ethan Wheatley, Ethan Williams Over 24 (as of 30 June)GoalkeepersAltay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, Andre Onana DefendersDiogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui, Luke Shaw MidfieldersBruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, Manuel Ugarte ForwardsMatheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee ScholarsGoalkeepersCameron Byrne-Hughes, Charlie Hardy, Fred Heath, Zachary Watson DefendersYuel Helfau, Godwill Kukonki, Albert Mills*, Dante Plunkett*, Jayden Ngwashi, Jacob Watson MidfieldersRafe McCormack, Jay McEvoy, Jariyah Shah ForwardsNoah Ajayi, Neithan Barbosa, Louie Bradbury, Nathaniel-Junior Brown United’s full attention will now shift to the upcoming transfer window and pre-season planning. 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 Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
73m star to leave United as Ineos decide against extending bumper contract – official
Barcelona make final decision on permanent deal for Marcus Rashford – report
Barcelona have reportedly made a final decision regarding whether or not they will keep Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford permanently. Dithering Rashford enjoyed a superb 2025/26 loan season with Barcelona, having joined the side last summer from United. The player fell out of favour under then-manager Ruben Amorim, who exiled him from the first team as they failed to see eye-to-eye. The England international plundered an impressive 14 goals and as many assists across all competitions for the Blaugrana. He was crucial as Barcelona retained their La Liga crown, piquing bitter rivals Real Madrid to the title. Barcelona had an option to keep Rashford permanently for £26m but over the past few months, they demonstrated a clear hesitation to exercise this clause. Rashford remained adamant, both in public and private, that he wanted to continue at the Camp Nou. Hansi Flick is also believed to have been in favour of the player staying in Spain. However, Barcelona either wanted to pay £13m or have him on another season-long loan spell. United insisted there was no room for fresh discussions. Now, Marca have confirmed that Barcelona have opted against keeping Rashford, especially after the €70m acquisition of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle. Final decision According to Marca, “it’s over” for Rashford, whose time with the Catalan giants has come to an end. The report states, “The Catalan club has decided not to exercise the purchase option they held on the striker, which they signed last summer with Manchester United as part of the loan agreement. “Barcelona will not pay the €30 million fee , and the player will therefore return to the English club.” Marca explain that the buy-option to sign Rashford permanently expires on Monday, June 15, and Barcelona will not be triggering it. Marca add, “Two factors were key in the club’s decision. Firstly, Gordon’s defensive work impressed Flick, who considers high pressing essential. This was Rashford’s weakest point.” “Age was also important, as Rashford turns 29 next October and is three and a half years older than his compatriot. The financial aspect resulted in a tie. Rashford has a very high salary, although it has been reduced by almost 40%, and an annual amortisation of 10 million. With Gordon, the opposite is true. His salary is much lower, but his amortisation amounts to 14 million annually. The annual cost, combining both factors, was practically the same.” Rashford is not viewed as being key to United’s future plans, therefore the Red Devils will likely look to move him on. Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have been credited with an interest in the Carrington academy graduate. Featured image Mike Hewitt 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 Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
Roy Keane vs Bruno Fernandes: Micah Richards offers surprise insight into feud between United icons
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes was embroiled in a war of words with former captain Roy Keane in the final weeks of the last campaign. The Portuguese talisman played a key role in the Red Devils’ third-place finish in the Premier League in the 2025/26 season and won the Premier League Player of the Season award. Fernandes started the season in a double pivot alongside Casemiro in former head coach Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, before moving to his favoured No. 10 role under Michael Carrick in January. Despite operating in two different positions across the two halves of the season, the 31 year old still managed to create history this year. Fernandes registered 21 assists in the league this season and etched his name in the record books as the player with the most assists in a Premier League campaign. The previous record (20) was set by Thierry Henry in the 2002/03 season and equalled by Kevin De Bruyne in the 2019/20 campaign. The Portuguese has lapped up praise for his performances, winning the FWA Footballer of the Year and a record-breaking fifth Sir Matt Busby Player of the Season award. However, it has not been enough to impress United legend Roy Keane. Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League35359215-3,068′ FA Cup11-1–90′ EFL Cup10—-45′ Total37369225-3,203′ Source: Transfermarkt. Battle of United skippers past and present It all started after the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest in the penultimate game of the Premier League season, when Fernandes equalled Henry and De Bruyne’s assist record. After the game, the United skipper said: “There were probably moments today when I should have passed instead of shot. I’m very happy for the assist, but more than that, I’m happy for the win and to finish the season on a high.” The increasing talk of Fernandes matching the assist record subsequently got on Keane’s nerves, who went on a rant, but misquoted the Portuguese. The Irishman said: “After the game he (Fernandes) got interviewed and he said in his interview, the captain of Man United, he said, ‘Yeah, a few times I probably should’ve…’ He said this himself, ‘I should have shot but, uh, I made them passes’. Wow! How can your mindset of a footballer be going out to a match and be talking about some individual recognition?” Of course, Keane’s comments did not sit well with the United skipper, who accused the former midfielder of putting words in his mouth. Fernandes responded: “What I don’t like is when people lie about things and [in] this case that you said about Roy Keane basically what he said is a lie because … either he saw some other interview or he can’t say that I said one thing that I’ve just not said and luckily for me everything is on record.” “I accept his criticism, I accept that he might like me as a player or not, like me as a person or not. But what I don’t like is that he puts words in my mouth that have not been said.” Keane has since provided a response to those comments on social media. Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards, who has frequently worked with the Irishman on various media platforms, has now shared an insight into the matter. Keane loves Fernandes Speaking to the Mirror, Richards insisted that Keane loves Fernandes. He said: “When I’m working with Roy Keane, his standards are so high, and they’ve fallen a bit, he can’t comprehend what’s happening. He loves Bruno, I know they had their little fallout, he’s got nothing against Bruno.” “It’s the standards, they shouldn’t be celebrating getting in the Champions League. I think they finished where they should be, but I think its helped they played one game a week. He’s passionate, when you’ve been the captain of Man Utd, that’s only his opinion.” “Yes he played in better teams, but it is all to do with standards. If United were giving 100 percent every week and just falling short, he’d probably be a bit more complimentary.” “He just sees players not putting a foot in, not pressing, that’s what he can’t get his head around. It’s not always about the ability, he got the most from his ability because he gave 100 percent.” Final Thoughts Keane is among a group of United legends, including Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, who have repeatedly criticised the current squad. While some constructive criticism is welcome, the former legends’ behaviour does leave a bad taste in the mouth and may also be harming their image among fans. Featured image Steve Bardens 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
“Ticks a lot of boxes”: Former Chelsea hero urges his team to go all out to land United superstar this summer
Manchester United have a busy summer ahead in terms of both incomings and outgoings. Departures United have already seen Casemiro leave on a free transfer, and Rasmus Hojlund has secured a permanent move to SSC Napoli. Jadon Sancho will also leave the club permanently, while Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, and Andre Onana are also likely to be on the chopping block. One player who is also likely to leave is Marcus Rashford. The English forward played on loan at Aston Villa in the second half of the 2024–2025 season after falling out with former Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim. He also spent last season on loan at FC Barcelona, winning the La Liga title and Spanish Super Cup. Rumours Despite Rashford’s desire to stay in Catalonia and Barcelona agreeing a €30 million purchase clause, it seems highly unlikely they will activate the deal. This means that the Carrington product’s future is very much up in the air ahead of the World Cup and the new season. Rashford has been linked to numerous clubs such as Bayern Munich, Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur. Pundit Wayne Rooney has already spoken of his surprise at how Rashford’s United career has panned out and revealed that he believed his former teammate would break his all-time goalscoring record for the club. Joe Cole Former Chelsea star turned pundit Joe Cole has claimed that he would love to see the United player in a blue shirt in West London. Speaking to The Sun newspaper, he claimed, “it’s just a matter of the wages and the valuation. Rashford ticks a lot of boxes, but you don’t want to spend a fortune on him – he’d do a good job for Chelsea.” Cole added, “he needs to keep going, Marcus, he needs to keep his confidence up because he rebuilt himself at Barcelona, and there’s still another level for him to jump to. He’s someone Chelsea should inquire about, but it’ll depend on the deal.” Marcus Rashford Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga3218893-1,762′ UEFA Champions League11554–579′ Copa del Rey4311–249′ Supercopa20—-32′ Total492614143-2,622′ Featured image Denis Doyle 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Official: United set up blockbuster clash vs European giants just before PL opener, fans cannot wait
Manchester United have announced another fixture for their summer tour. Pre-season tour After a successful season last year, during which they finished third in the league, Manchester United will be hoping to start the new campaign with a bang. Next week, the club will find out their Premier League schedule, and pre-season will start next month. Whilst the Red Devils have opted for international American or Asian tours in recent years, this summer will be closer to home, with a European visit planned. On Saturday, 18th July, Manchester United will face Wrexham in Helsinki before playing Rosenborg in Norway on Friday, 24th. They will then take on Atletico Madrid in Sweden on 1st August in the Snapdragon Cup before facing European champions Paris Saint-Germain on the 8th, also in Sweden. They will then travel to Dublin to take on Leeds United at Croke Park on 12th August. Final match locked in The Red Devils have announced their final match of the pre-season tour against European royalty. They will take on seven-time European champions AC Milan on Saturday, 15th August in Poland. The club’s official website announced that, “the fixture will take place in Wroclaw, Poland, on Saturday 15 August at the Tarczynski Arena, with the kick-off time still to be decided.” The website also provides the information that, “tickets will go on pre‑sale exclusively to all fans, including Season‑Ticket Holders, Executive Club Members and Official Members from Tuesday 9 June at 11:00 BST. General sale will commence on Saturday 13 June at 09:00 BST.” Commenting on the announcement of the match, director of football Jason Wilcox added, “we’re excited to be concluding our pre‑season tour in Wroclaw, Poland, with a big game against AC Milan. With fixtures now confirmed across five countries and six fantastic cities, these matches will provide strong preparation for the 2026/27 season and a valuable opportunity to connect with our incredible fans across Europe. Their support will be vital as we build momentum.” Milan finished fifth in the Serie A table last season and will be in next season’s Europa League. The last competitive game between the two sides was in the Europa League Round of 16 match in 2021, when a Paul Pogba goal gave Manchester United a 1-0 win in the San Siro to seal a 2-1 aggregate victory. Featured image Mike Hewitt 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Video: United Women star maintains sensational form with stupendous acrobatic goal to secure nation’s World Cup spot
Manchester United Women had numerous players in action on Tuesday night for their respective national teams. Melvine Malard The French star scored and assisted last time out and once again proved her worth as she guided France to a 1-0 win over Ireland, which secured World Cup qualification. Malard scored a stupendous acrobatic goal to give her nation the lead just before half-time. Mared Griffiths and Safia Middleton-Patel Middleton-Patel started in goal for Wales as they beat Czechia 3-1 to win their qualification group. United youngster Mared Griffiths added the third to secure a vital win for the Welsh. Hanna Lundkvist, Fridolina Rolfo, Anna Sandberg, Julia Zigiotti Sweden had four United stars in action as they drew 2-2 with Italy. Lundkvist’s headed effort on goal was parried onto the crossbar and into the back of the net to give the Swedes a lifeline after they were 2-0 down on 70 minutes. Just three minutes later, Rolfo equalised. Another corner was not dealt with by the Italian defence, and the United attacker was on hand to smash in the equaliser. Rolfo had complained previously about her game time for the national team and will hope this goal allows her to see more time on the pitch in the future. Anna Sandberg and Julia Zigiotti were also starters for a United-themed Swedish team. Elisabeth Terland and Lisa Naalsund Both of United’s Norwegians started in Norway’s 2-1 win over Austria. They helped the Scandinavian side to finish second in the qualification group behind Germany. Maya Le Tissier and Jess Park Two of United’s stars were in action for England as they beat Ukraine 3-0. The Manchester United captain, Le Tissier, started at right-back and Park came on in the 65th minute of action. The Three Lions finished second behind Spain and will need to go to the play-offs to qualify for the World Cup. Dominique Janssen United veteran Janssen started at centre-back as the Netherlands defeated Poland 3-1. The result meant they finished second in the group, just behind Malard’s France. Featured image Ben Roberts Photo 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
Controversial move: First signing of the INEOS era set to ditch United in favour of joining arch-rivals Leeds – report
Apart from first-team stars, the fate of several Manchester United academy graduates is likely to be decided this summer. As previously relayed by The Peoples Person, Toby Collyer looks to be on his way out of the club, while Radek Vitek could potentially follow him out of the club after a brilliant loan spell. However, a controversial transfer is in the works, with Leeds United agreeing a deal to sign highly-rated winger Silva Mexes, according to Talent Hunter. The 16-year-old is eligible to sign a scholarship contract, and Leeds have offered him the same with the Thailand Under-17 international set to sign on the dotted line this summer. Controversial transfer He will be rewarded with his first professional deal when he turns 17. Leeds’ plan is to utilise him in both Under-18 and Under-21 games next season. “Leeds United are set to sign 16 year-old winger Silva Mexes from Manchester United. Leeds United are set to sign 16 year-old winger Silva Mexes from Manchester United.👀✍️ Mexes will sign his scholarship with Leeds before signing his first professional contract once he turns 17 early next year.✅ He will be joining the U18 and U21 age groups from next season.… pic.twitter.com/6RPLl4CHiF — The Talent Hunter 🎯 (@TalentHunter) June 8, 2026 “Mexes will sign his scholarship with Leeds before signing his first professional contract once he turns 17 early next year. “He will be joining the U18 and U21 age groups from next season. An unbelievable signing for Leeds and definitely a player to look out for.” Silva Mexes set to join Leeds Interestingly, Silva Mexes was the first signing of the INEOS era, with the Red Devils snapping him up from Ipswich Town’s academy. It was expected that the wonderkid would remain in Manchester, considering his father, former Wales striker Rob Earnshaw, was a big United fan growing up. However, it seems the family felt a pathway to the first team would be easier to access at Elland Road. While a direct move from Old Trafford to their arch-rivals is not too common, recently Under-18 star Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher also chose to walk down the same path. Feature image Alex Livesey 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Manager who brought out the best in United superstar keen on a reunion, summer bid being prepared – report
Manchester United are desperate to offload Marcus Rashford, both due to his enormous wages and because his sale will count as pure profit. Barcelona were expected to trigger his £26 million buy option following his exploits while out on loan, but so far, the Catalan giants have been stalling. They insisted on a price reduction before requesting for another loan deal, only to spend an initial £60 million to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle. Clearly, the La Liga champions have the money, with deals for Bernardo Silva and Julian Alvarez also reportedly in the pipeline. Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona dream evaporating fast However, the Mancunian is still not ready to give up on his dream of staying at Camp Nou and is waiting to hear from the Spanish giants officially. In the meantime, INEOS have been standing firm in the hope of earning a higher fee from elsewhere. Bayern Munich are interested, but are not in a position to pay the Englishman’s enormous wages. There is reported interest from Premier League sides, but the Red Devils would prefer not to sell to a direct rival. If a permanent exit does not materialise, there is every chance Marcus Rashford will return to Carrington for pre-season, a scenario Michael Carrick will be keen to avoid. United do not want Marcus Rashford back This is why INEOS are reportedly open to reducing their asking price for the 28-year-old. However, so far, Barca are yet to give their green light. Interestingly, Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness) have claimed that Aston Villa have joined the race for the United academy graduate. The former United No. 10 spent the second half of the 2024/25 campaign at Villa Park and Unai Emery is keen to reunite with the versatile attacker. Aston Villa ready to pay, but Marcus Rashford remains adamant Villa are even ready to pay a reasonable fee to buy him. However, the ball currently rests in Rashford’s court. He has made no secret of his desire to continue playing for the Blaugrana. A decent World Cup could potentially change Barca’s mind. INEOS will also be hoping for the same. Feature image Michael Regan 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
“Special” talent has made his choice between United and Real Madrid, fans will be buzzing – report
Manchester United are currently focusing all their energies on trying to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Michael Carrick wants a complete Paris Saint-Germain-style rebuild of United’s midfield, with Ederson seen as the first piece of the puzzle. The Hammers ace, with his ability both with and without the ball, is considered to have the potential to emulate current Premier League superstar and former United target, Declan Rice. This is why the Red Devils are determined to push through all the roadblocks in order to get the deal done. Roadblocks in Mateus Fernandes race So far, West Ham have refused to budge from their initial valuation, while Real Madrid’s entry into the race has further complicated matters. The former Southampton ace has mentioned his admiration for Bruno Fernandes and his desire to join him at Old Trafford. I’m advised that Mateus Fernandes is one of several players that Mourinho admires, but he is not a priority presently. A player of his ability/potential has many European suitors, and a Madrid approach wouldn’t be surprising. Still, there are questions about valuation. — Shaun Connolly (@shaunconnolly85) June 9, 2026 However, it has been reported that super agent Jorge Mendes is pulling the strings and trying to get the Portugal international to sign for Los Blancos instead. Journalist Shaun Connolly has good news on that front. He has mentioned that while it is true that Jose Mourinho is a fan of his compatriot, Mateus Fernandes is among several names being looked at by the Spanish giants. Real Madrid’s entry has complicated matters As for United, the 21-year-old is seen as a priority, which is why the “special talent” prefers to join the English giants. “Mateus Fernandes is one of several players that Mourinho admires, but he is not a priority presently,” Connolly wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Naturally, this is a precarious situation, given Fernandes’ potential for further growth. But he has given preference to Manchester United, and the club are continuing with their efforts to agree a suitable fee. — Shaun Connolly (@shaunconnolly85) June 9, 2026 “A player of his ability/potential has many European suitors, and a Madrid approach wouldn’t be surprising. Still, there are questions about valuation. “Naturally, this is a precarious situation, given Fernandes’ potential for further growth. But he has given preference to Manchester United, and the club are continuing with their efforts to agree a suitable fee.” Mateus Fernandes has chosen where he wants to play next season This effectively means the La Liga side are not expected to be a problem provided INEOS can find a breakthrough with regards to the Portugal international’s price. The chance to play alongside and eventually succeed Bruno Fernandes at the Theatre of Dreams should be enough of a lure; at least, that is what United are banking on. Feature image Julian Finney 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
Decision makers at United blown away by the next Declan Rice, Red Devils going all out to land him ahead of rivals – Sky
Manchester United are planning a major midfield revamp, with Michael Carrick far from pleased with his current options. A Paris Saint-Germain style rebuild is on the cards following Casemiro’s departure. Before leaving, the Brazilian had endorsed Ederson as his replacement. Manuel Ugarte has failed to impress in his two years in England, and INEOS are keen to cut their losses. Academy graduate Toby Collyer, who endured two injury-hit loan spells last season, is also expected to depart. This shows that the Red Devils need at least three new incomings. Mateus Fernandes chase full of complications The Atalanta ace has already been signed, with the 20-time English league champions now focusing their energies on landing Mateus Fernandes next. The Portuguese ace would love to link up with Bruno Fernandes, whom he considers his idol, but West Ham’s price tag is proving to be a major obstacle. Despite their relegation, the Hammers value the 21-year-old at £80 million and are in no rush to sell their talisman. There is also the entry of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in the race. Jose Mourinho is reportedly a fan, while the Champions League winners hold a special place in the former Southampton ace’s heart. Why United are hellbent on Mateus Fernandes Sky Sports have revealed that despite numerous roadblocks, INEOS are determined to push for the Portugal international as they feel he has the talent to emulate current Premier League superstar Declan Rice. It is well known that former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted to sign the Arsenal star during his time at the club, only for the Glazers not to back him in the market. The repercussions of that decision can still be felt, and the current co-owners are determined not to repeat the mistakes of the past. “Manchester United are exploring a potential deal for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. Sky Sports News understands West Ham value Fernandes at around £80m and are in no rush to sell the player. The Hammers signed the Portuguese midfielder for an initial fee of £38m last summer. West Ham remain adamant, United refusing to bow down “United are continuing to do background work on Fernandes as he is seen as a realistic deal after the Hammers’ relegation, with midfield remaining a priority for the club to strengthen this window. “Decision makers inside the club believe Fernandes was one of the best young players in the Premier League last season and has the potential to become as good as Declan Rice.” West Ham have not ruled out the possibility of Mateus Fernandes staying put, but knowing the financial implications of Championship football, it is almost certain that the midfielder will leave. United have even offered the West Ham No. 18 the chance to succeed their club captain. They are hoping that such an opportunity will be hard to turn down. This saga is unlikely to see a resolution any time soon. Feature 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
