Manchester United have made direct contact with the representatives of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.
Romano confirmed that the Red Devils initiated conversations with Fernandes’ agents within the last 48 hours, covering both transfer fees and personal terms for the 21-year-old.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said, “Manchester United made contact over the last 48 hours with the agents of the player, and Manchester United started the conversation about the eventual cost of the deal, transfer fee, but also salary.”
West Ham have set a firm asking price for the Portuguese midfielder, with Romano clear on the club’s stance heading into the summer window.
Romano added, “The price decided by West Ham for Mateus Fernandes, according to my information, is £85m. West Ham wants £85m to let Mateus Fernandes leave the club in the summer transfer window.”
Despite the steep valuation, Romano indicated that a departure is inevitable given West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League after finishing 18th this season.
He stated, “He will leave for sure because he’s not a player for the Championship, but West Ham are very clear on the price.”
Fernandes had a standout individual campaign despite his club’s struggles, appearing in 42 matches across all competitions and averaging 5.98 tackles, 5.46 ball recoveries, and 10.95 defensive contributions per game.
His performances were rewarded with a first call-up to the Portugal national team in March, though he missed out on Roberto Martinez’s 26-man squad for the World Cup.
Romano also noted that interest in Fernandes extends well beyond Old Trafford, with the midfielder attracting significant attention from across English football and abroad.
He said, “There is a lot of clubs interested in him, but really a lot of clubs in England. Rumours of Real Madrid in Spain and more.”
United will face stiff competition to secure the midfielder’s signature, with multiple clubs expected to launch formal bids as the summer window progresses.
The Red Devils will be hoping to replicate the shrewd business they conducted in signing Ederson for £35m from Atalanta, negotiating below the Italian club’s initial valuation.
If United can apply similar pressure on West Ham’s asking price, landing Fernandes could represent one of the most significant midfield acquisitions at Old Trafford in recent years.