Manchester United have opened formal negotiations with West Ham United over a summer transfer deal for Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Romano confirms that United have started official negotiations with the representative of the 21-year-old, signalling serious intent from the Old Trafford club.
Talks have also been opened directly with West Ham, as United look to bolster their defensive midfield options ahead of the new Premier League season.
United are unlikely to meet the £85 million valuation upfront and have no plans to pay what Romano describes as “crazy money” for the young Portuguese star.
Instead, the club are expected to push for a more favourable payment structure, with a portion of the transfer fee covered through performance-related add-ons.
The move comes as United prepare to lose Casemiro when his contract expires on June 30, while Manuel Ugarte could also depart after failing to nail down a regular starting role last term.
United have already agreed a deal with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, who is currently at the World Cup and will complete his medical upon his return.
Fernandes has proven his quality in the Premier League over two seasons, winning more than five duels per game with three tackles and completing 87 percent of his passes last campaign.
Despite West Ham’s top-flight relegation, the 21-year-old impressed throughout, chipping in with three goals and four assists in the league while making close to four recoveries per outing.
United view Fernandes as a player with the attributes to develop into an elite defensive midfielder, and Michael Carrick’s side are fully aware of his significant long-term potential.
West Ham have not yet indicated a willingness to accept a structured payment deal, but the Hammers’ need to balance their financial books could force a change in their position in the coming weeks.