Uniteds pursuit of Mateus Fernandes under threat as CL giants strike first report

Manchester United’s pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is hardly going to be a straightforward affair. The Red Devils are looking for midfield reinforcements this summer after parting ways with Casemiro, who has left the club as a free agent. Recent reports suggest that the English giants have already secured the signature of Atalanta’s Ederson to strengthen the middle of the park. However, Manuel Ugarte also remains linked with an exit, so United are eager to add more quality to the position before the start of the new season. With a move for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson deemed too costly, the Red Devils have reportedly identified Fernandes as their next priority for the summer. Fernandes matches United’s requirement United have preferred Premier League-proven talents in recent times, and their transfer strategy has largely revolved around signing emerging players before they reach their full potential. Fernandes has adapted very well to the rigours of the English top-flight since joining Southampton from Sporting in the summer of 2024, before moving to the London Stadium a year later. Last season, the Portuguese registered five goals and five assists in 42 appearances across all competitions for the Hammers, all but two of which were starts. Mateus Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League3635346-3,026′ Championship32-1–189′ FA Cup221—225′ EFL Cup111-1-71′ Total4240557-3,511′ Source: Transfermarkt. Fernandes’ efforts have already earned him admirers at Old Trafford, with recent reports stating the Red Devils are leading the race for his signature. It was also suggested that Real Madrid had withdrawn from the race as they expected the 21 year old to join United. However, a contrasting update has now emerged. Real Madrid initiate Fernandes contact According to TEAMtalk, Real Madrid have initiated contact over a move for Fernandes this summer, although United continue to be the frontrunner in the race. The report states: “Real Madrid have now ‘made contact’ regarding a move for West Ham star Mateus Fernandes, TEAMtalk sources confirm, as Manchester United push to win the race for the midfielder.” “The Red Devils are still considered the frontrunners, with club officials hopeful of progressing discussions swiftly.” The report confirms that the Red Devils are keen to complete a deal before the Portuguese’s other suitors, including Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), gain momentum in the race. The English giants are aware of the rising interest in the player, but their worst fears could now come true. The report continues: “Real Madrid have made a fresh enquiry over a move for Fernandes in the past 48 hours, TEAMtalk can reveal, as they, like Man Utd, push to revamp their midfield this summer. New manager Jose Mourinho, backed by Los Blancos president Florentino Perez, has his eye on a number of top-class midfield targets.” “Real Madrid have explored moves for the likes of Man City star Rodri and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, but Hammers ace Fernandes is now under consideration, too.” The report adds that while the Hammers are in no hurry to offload their prized asset, a deal could be possible for around £80 million. Final Thoughts Fernandes is a generational talent with a very high ceiling and has everything that United are looking for in a midfielder this summer. Having already conceded defeat in their pursuit of Anderson, the Red Devils must ensure they do not miss out on the Portuguese. 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 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.