Manchester United have accelerated their efforts to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to reports from Caught Offside.
Arsenal and Chelsea are also credited with interest in the 21-year-old, making the competition for his signature fierce this summer.
Fernandes could be available for between £43 million and £52 million following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League to the Championship.
The Sporting Lisbon graduate joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer and made a significant impact throughout the 2025/26 season.
He registered 10 goal contributions from 42 appearances in all competitions, underlining his importance to the West Ham setup.
Fernandes completed 87% of his passes in the top flight, while averaging 5.5 duels won, almost 3 tackles per game, and 5 recoveries per match.
West Ham’s relegation after a 14-year Premier League stay is expected to open the door for Fernandes to pursue a bigger challenge this summer.
Manchester United are already prioritising a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, reportedly close to agreeing a £35 million fee for the Brazil international.
The club also faces a significant midfield rebuild with Casemiro confirmed to be leaving when his contract expires at the end of June, and Manuel Ugarte’s future uncertain.
Fernandes is said to be giving United “first priority” as a destination, which could give the Red Devils a decisive edge over their Premier League rivals.
United captain Bruno Fernandes has already spoken positively about his compatriot’s credentials ahead of a potential move to Old Trafford.