United now in negotiations with English rivals to agree deal for 5’10” magician who wants Old Trafford move – report

Manchester United are entering the summer transfer window in perhaps their strongest position in a long while.  With Champions League football secured, the Red Devils could reportedly “spend close to £300m” this summer in theory. Such a figure would shatter the current record of around £215m. However, United are yet to finalise any signings this summer, which has sparked questions from some anxious, transfer-hungry fans. Manchester United negotiating Mateus Fernandes deal On Tuesday morning, The Athletic reported that Manchester United have held talks over a potential fee and wages for Mateus Fernandes. Furthermore, Theatre of Red’s Shaun Connolly claims United are comfortable and confident with their transfer business, “contrary to this unnecessary anxiety.” It is understood that “talks are ongoing” to agree a suitable fee for the West Ham midfielder. This is a major development, as it underlines that United have moved well beyond merely monitoring the Portugal international and are now actively working on bringing him to Old Trafford. It is also reported that the 5’10” midfield gem, who is known for his technical ability and vision, wants to join United. West Ham United’s asking price for Mateus Fernandes On Monday, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming West Ham United are demanding up to £80m for Fernandes, having signed him for around £38m from Southampton last year.  However, United are thought to be hopeful of completing the signing of the Portugal international for about £40m. 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 Given West Ham’s need to raise up to £150 million in sales following their relegation to the Championship, the Hammers are unlikely to get what they want, unless his suitors, United, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, decide to spend recklessly.  United’s alleged negotiations over a fee show that INEOS believe there is a reasonable deal to be done this summer. 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!