Manchester United’s plan to sign Mateus Fernandes is set to be rocked by Real Madrid’s latest decision, according to a report from Spain. Midfield Maestro Fernandes, 21, has enjoyed a superb debut campaign for West Ham United, despite Nuno Espirito Santo’s side being unable to stave off relegation on the final day of the 2025/26 season. 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 The Portugal international, who narrowly missed out on a place in the Seleção das Quinas’ squad for the World Cup, is an all-action dynamo, capable of playing across a variety of roles in midfield. Signed from Southampton last year for £42 million after the Saints faced the same descent into the Championship, West Ham are demanding around double that price this summer to part with their prized asset. The Hammers need to generate up to £150 million to cope with the effects of relegation. Fernandes is their most valuable asset, though flying full-back El Hadji Malick Diouf and Jarrod Bowen are other high-profile candidates to leave. Southampton included a 15% sell-on clause in the deal, further emboldening West Ham’s stance to drive the price as high as possible amid interest from a host of top clubs, including the Red Devils. Eyed by Europe’s Elite Fabrizio Romano reveals United’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Jason Wilcox, have held talks with Fernandes’ camp to assess the viability of a deal, while one inside source even claims club-to-club negotiations are underway. A £39 million deal has already been struck for Atalanta and Brazil enforcer Ederson, though the 26-year-old’s late call-up by Carlo Ancelotti will likely delay official completion of the move. United are intent on signing at least one more midfielder, with a third expected to arrive should Manuel Ugarte be sold. Fernandes appears the leading target at present, given pursuits of Elliot Anderson and Aurélien Tchouaméni have proven unfeasible. However, United are not alone in their admiration of the Olhão native, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain having both made advances. But Real Madrid have now stormed into the race as a late addition after José Mourinho was confirmed to be returning to the Bernabéu. Spanish outlet AS (as relayed by Sport Witness) claims Fernandes is a priority for Mourinho as the ‘Special One’ wants to inject more “commitment” into Real’s squad. Both parties share the same agent, Jorge Mendes, who is said to be working to help Los Blancos hijack United’s move, with the report concluding that Fernandes is now one of Real’s “top targets” and a “deal is underway”. Final Thoughts A Portuguese midfielder being chased, influenced by a trifecta of Jorge Mendes, José Mourinho and the allure of Real Madrid, is a difficult one for any club—even one the size of Manchester United—to compete with. However, sources at Old Trafford believe Mendes is playing up interest to extract a better deal for his client. There is understood to be confidence close to negotiations that Fernandes is most likely to become a Red Devil this summer, which would explain why INEOS are marching forward with a deal, despite West Ham’s exorbitant demands and the threat of hijack from the Spanish capital. Featured 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 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.
CL juggernaut launches hijack of United’s move for midfield monster despite Wilcox flying in for talks – report
United hold talks to sign European Cup winner, Red Devils have a major advantage in the race – report
Manchester United are attempting to reach an agreement for their second midfield signing after finalising the deal to acquire Ederson from Atalanta. According to The Athletic, Mateus Fernandes is among the top names being considered, and United have held discussions regarding both the transfer fee and wages. However, West Ham United intend to demand £80 million for the Portuguese midfielder. As things stand, the Red Devils are not prepared to meet that asking price. Manchester United keen on Alex Scott The Athletic claims Bournemouth’s box-to-box midfield gem Alex Scott is another potential target. The technically gifted Englishman has earned plaudits for his ball-carrying ability and link-up play. However, Bournemouth are reportedly keen to tie the 21-year-old down to a new contract following his excellent season. They would be open to including a release clause worth around £75m in any new deal. However, Scott’s current deal is set to expire in 2028, and his suitors “might feel they have a chance to strike an agreement closer to £60 million this summer.” Talks held for Adam Wharton In addition to Scott, United have “held talks on Carlos Baleba, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton among others.” Wharton, in particular, has been on United’s radar since his rise at Blackburn Rovers in the Championship and has been compared to Michael Carrick by Rio Ferdinand. Over the last two years, the 22-year-old England midfielder has established himself as a key player at Crystal Palace. In possession, Wharton is considered one of the best players in the Premier League. However, there are some concerns over his athleticism. A separate report claimed that Wharton wants to join a Champions League club after helping Palace win the FA Cup and Europa Conference League. Accordingly, the player’s stance should give United an advantage in the race. Featured image Marc Atkins 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!
United announce new pre-season fixture date
Sponsor Image – white adidasSponsor Image – white Snapdragon NewsMUTVTicketsUnited StoreTeamsClubPre-sale and 10% discountAC Milan ticketsClick hereClick hereLearn moreTour 2026 ticketsSee the Reds this summerBook nowBook nowThe 2026/27 home shirtYour look, your wayBuy now at United StoreBuy now at United StoreRelated ContentYou might also like Premier League fixtures day fast approachingNews19 hours agoPremier League fixtures day fast approachingPremier League fixtures day fast approachingNews19 hours agoPremier League fixtures day fast approachingBerrada’s podcast: Five key quotesPodcast3 days agoBerrada’s podcast: Five key quotesBerrada’s podcast: Five key quotesPodcast3 days agoBerrada’s podcast: Five key quotesPre-season: Our game-by-game guideNews29 minutes agoPre-season: Our game-by-game guidePre-season: Our game-by-game guideNews29 minutes agoPre-season: Our game-by-game guide;
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Bruno Fernandes sends clear message of support to United target as big-money summer move looms – report
Whilst the majority of the football world is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, Manchester United’s hierarchy are working on the best way to navigate the summer transfer market and get the relevant players in and out of Old Trafford for the upcoming Premier League season. A raft of names have been linked with joining Michael Carrick’s squad for the new campaign, with many of them involved in the international tournament that gets underway this week. One of these is wantaway AC Milan star Rafael Leao, who has become a target for many European clubs after stating his desire to leave the Italian giants in this window. Rush of blood in warm-up game Leao is currently warming up for the World Cup with Portugal but did not get his preparations off to the best start, as he was sent off for throwing a punch at an opponent in the friendly game against Chile at the weekend. The show of ill-discipline will fortunately not cost the forward game time in terms of suspension, but will no doubt impact Roberto Martinez’s decision-making, with red cards in tournament football often resulting in irreversible damage. Portugal were otherwise impressive in the warm-up game, with United skipper Bruno Fernandes continuing his fine form at club level with a wonderful winning goal for his nation. As reported by The Mirror, Fernandes has since sent a public message of support to his teammate, who apologised for his outburst on social media after the game. Leao wrote on Instagram: “Regarding my expulsion. I simply wanted to protect my colleague, never with the intention of hurting the opponent! Thank you to all the Portuguese who came to Jamor, amazing atmosphere, we’re still together.” Bruno’s one-word response of “Together” showed solidarity with the 26-year-old, who will be desperate to impress in the U.S. to not just help his nation but secure a big move after the tournament. Premier League move wanted Leao has admitted he would love to play in the Premier League and believes his style would suit the English top flight as he looks for a “new challenge” outside of Serie A. “For my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent, as a player. If a Premier League opportunity were to come along, I would be very happy,” he was quoted. It is understood Milan are willing to part ways with one of their star men and would accept a bid in the region of £43 million for a player who has two years left on his contract at the San Siro. Although erratic at times, the price looks decent market value for a wide man who, when on form, is undoubtedly one of the best in Europe. Additionally, United are in the market for a player of Leao’s profile but are heavily focusing on addressing their midfield issues before splashing any cash on the attack, which they heavily improved last summer. Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are hotly linked with making an official move, with Premier League champions Arsenal reportedly holding an interest too. It might be that the Milan magician’s relationship with Fernandes helps push a deal over the line in the coming weeks, with the pair clearly having each other’s backs on the national stage. Both players will be hoping for World Cup glory in the coming months and might find themselves playing together in red under the lights of the Theatre of Dreams if INEOS decide Leao is worth a gamble in the market. Featured image by Michael Regan/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 Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for three years. A lifelong red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology through the Open University. His favourite match attended was the unforgettable night in Paris in 2019 under the guidance of one of his idols, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
United target PL rival’s 50m wizard after Carrick’s decision to unleash Amorim signing in new role – The Athletic
Manchester United remain divided on Patrick Dorgu’s best position as the club reportedly considers targets at both full-back and on the wing, including an explosive raid on a major Premier League rival. The Dynamic Dane Despite arriving from Serie A minnows Lecce as a left wing-back under Ruben Amorim in February 2025, Dorgu has played in a variety of roles in his first 18 months in England. The Portuguese tactician initially played him on the right, citing how often he played there in Italy. However, he was then restored to the left-hand side for much of Amorim’s tenure, except for short cameos on the opposite flank. However, the 21-year-old has been reinvented as a left-winger by Michael Carrick, who was confirmed as United’s permanent head coach last month, despite Amorim’s criticism of Dorgu’s “anxiety” in possession. Across 283 minutes under Carrick, the Denmark international has scored three times and assisted another – an average of a goal contribution every 71 minutes. It is a small sample size, but his wondergoal against Ukraine on Monday evening offers further evidence of his abilities in the final third. Nonetheless, whether Dorgu’s best position is on the wing or further back remains a “matter of some debate” at Old Trafford, according to The Athletic. The report states United are “expected to strengthen their left-hand side”, though the long-term ruling on Dorgu will significantly influence this. “It is possible a signing arrives on the left of attack,” which would suggest the Copenhagen native’s future lies in defence. A Successor to Shaw Conversely, if United decide to target a new full-back as Carrick is happy with Dorgu in a more advanced role, The Athletic claims Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall is an option with “admirers” in M16. Sporting director Jason Wilcox is understood to be a huge fan of the 21-year-old England international, who narrowly missed out on a place in the Three Lions’ World Cup squad – a source of frustration for the youngster. Newcastle have endured a difficult campaign at St James’ Park, finishing 12th and eliminated from the Champions League by Barcelona in a chastening 8-3 demolition. When combined with financial difficulties off the pitch, the Magpies are braced for pursuits of their best players, including Hall. Anthony Gordon’s £70 million move to Camp Nou has eased this pressure, while Eddie Howe is keen to keep Hall. Newcastle were said to be ready to demand a record-breaking fee for a full-back to let the former Chelsea star leave Tyneside, though The Athletic claims a £50m offer could “test that resolve,” which would explain United’s growing interest. Final Thoughts If Dorgu does remain on the wing, a new left-back to rotate with Luke Shaw is essential. The 30-year-old Englishman enjoyed an injury-free year, becoming just the fifth outfield player to start every Premier League match in a single campaign for the club. However, the increased workload of a return to the Champions League and deeper runs in the cup competitions will not give Shaw adequate time to recover between matches, as he has this season. Hall, who does not turn 22 until September, has both the quality to compete with Shaw now, but the youth to also serve as his long-term successor. 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.
United plotting surprise raid on sworn enemy for 6’3 monster to upgrade Ten Hag flop – The Athletic
Manchester United are considering a shock swoop for Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow, according to a new report. Exits Planned The arrival of Senne Lammens has brought a sense of calm and stability to a position which has plagued the Red Devils in recent years. Captured from Royal Antwerp for £18.1 million last summer, the 23-year-old Belgian has proven to be a masterstroke of a signing after being strongly recommended by goalkeeping scout Tony Coton. The regularity with which his predecessors, Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir, would commit mistakes was their only consistent trait. By contrast, Lammens has imbued the backline in front of him with confidence, while demonstrating the ability to not let his own errors, however infrequent, affect his performance. The Premier League named him the Transfer of the Season for the 2025/26 campaign – a view underlined by his valuation growing to £45m, CIES Football Obs reveals. Bayindir and Onana are expected to be sold this summer, with Türkiye understood to be the most likely destination for both. Radek Vitek, fresh from an award-winning loan spell with Bristol City, is highly regarded at Old Trafford. But the 22-year-old Czech is pushing for first-team minutes, making a loan or permanent transfer likely. A Back-Up to the Belgian Long-term stalwart Tom Heaton put pen to paper on a one-year extension last week, meaning the 40-year-old will enter his 21st season as a footballer. But the Chester native is the third-choice ‘keeper, as much a part of the coaching staff as the first-team squad. A new No.2 to back up Lammens ahead of an increased workload next year is needed, though United’s focus on midfield makes an experienced option available on a cut-price deal the preference. Wolverhampton Wanderers shot-stopper Sam Johnstone, who came through United’s academy, is a target, given the Black Country side’s relegation makes an exit from Molineux likely. But The Athletic reveals Darlow, Leeds United’s goalkeeper who displaced Lucas Perri to make 22 appearances last season, is another option the Red Devils are “weighing up an approach” for. The 35-year-old Wales international’s contract at Elland Road expires this month, and he would “count towards United’s homegrown quota” as a product of Aston Villa’s academy. Tottenham Hotspur are also said to be considering a move. Final Thoughts A back-up goalkeeper is not the type of transfer which will get pulses racing, but an unreliable No.2 can prove disastrous for a team if not able to answer the call. It is far better to have one, and not need one, than need one, and not have one. Darlow is 6’3″ with good fundamentals, available without spending a penny, and has a wealth of experience in English football. He is a sensible target – something which has not always guided recruitment in M16. Featured image Nathan Stirk 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.
Multiple PL winner with United consulted by Tuchel ahead of England’s World Cup campaign – report
Former Manchester United defender Phil Neville has been consulted by England head coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of the World Cup. United career Neville broke into the Manchester United first team in the 1990s after coming through the youth ranks alongside the likes of his brother Gary, David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs. He played 386 times for the club between 1994 and 2005, scoring eight goals. Neville then moved to Everton and spent eight seasons at the Toffees, playing 303 times for them. He was also made captain of the side. Managerial career Neville led the England Women’s national team from 2018 to 2021 and was also manager of Inter Miami between 2021 and 2023. His latest stint was a three-year spell as Portland Timbers head coach. The club announced his departure last month. Consulted by Tuchel The Telegraph report that, “Thomas Tuchel spoke to English coaches who have worked in the United States, including Phil Neville and John Herdman, as part of his detailed preparations for the World Cup.” The paper reports that, “Telegraph Sport understands that at one stage consideration was even given to adding one of them, as a consultant, to the England staff for the duration of the tournament to help with acclimatisation and logistics.” Nonetheless, it was decided that a series of calls would suffice, and Neville was consulted owing to his five years of experience preparing Major League Soccer teams. Such issues touched upon were the differing climates across the huge nation and the impact of crossing time zones across various states. Traffic delays in certain cities, as well as the effects of playing at high altitude, were also on the agenda. England will face Costa Rica in a friendly tomorrow before facing Croatia on 17 June in their opening World Cup game. 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.
