Manchester United have re-entered the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, pushing hard to outmanoeuvre Tottenham Hotspur in the process.
Transfer journalist Matteo Moretto reports that United held new contacts with Fernandes’ representatives “in the last few hours” and are willing to improve their contract proposal.
United are also set to open formal talks directly with West Ham as they look to accelerate a deal for the Portuguese midfielder this summer.
Moretto wrote: “Manchester United is back in the chase for Mateus Fernandes. In the last few hours, there have been new contacts with the player; the Red Devils are willing to improve their contractual offer to convince him to sign.”
The journalist added: “Manchester United also plans to hold direct talks with West Ham. Tottenham remains in the race and has pressed hard in recent days, but now United is trying to get ahead.”
Fernandes has attracted significant attention this summer following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal all previously linked with the player.
Tottenham had appeared to be leading the race, reportedly coming close to agreeing personal terms with the 21-year-old before United’s renewed interest changed the dynamics.
West Ham are holding firm on their valuation of around £80m for Fernandes, who still has a contract at the London Stadium running until 2031, giving the club strong negotiating leverage.
The midfielder joined West Ham from Southampton last summer and has established himself as one of the most sought-after young players in the division, capable of operating as a box-to-box midfielder or in a deeper playmaker role.
Tottenham, under Roberto De Zerbi, are prioritising a midfield overhaul this summer and have also been working on a deal to sign Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali alongside Fernandes.
United’s need for midfield reinforcements has grown increasingly urgent, with Manuel Ugarte having suffered a serious knee injury that could require Michael Carrick’s side to sign multiple new options.
Casemiro’s departure as a free agent has left a significant void in the United engine room, and the club have already agreed a deal to sign Ederson as they look to reshape the department.
Fernandes represents a versatile and dynamic option in midfield, and at just 21 years old, he would offer whichever club lands him a long-term investment with considerable upside.