Manchester United have made 21-year-old midfielder Matheus Fernandes one of their top transfer priorities this summer as they look to strengthen the heart of their squad ahead of the new season.
The Red Devils are actively searching for fresh energy in midfield, and Fernandes has quickly emerged as a key target. However, landing him won’t come cheap.
West Ham United are reportedly demanding a hefty fee for the young star, despite signing him for an initial £38 million from Southampton FC just last summer. United are unlikely to match the current asking price, meaning negotiations will likely depend on both clubs finding common ground.
Inside West Ham, there is growing belief that Fernandes could develop into one of the best midfielders in England. Club officials reportedly see similarities with former captain Declan Rice, who made a blockbuster £105 million move to Arsenal FC in 2023.
Although West Ham are open to keeping Fernandes as they push for an immediate return to the Premier League, they know it may be difficult if bigger clubs continue circling. Alongside United, both Arsenal FC and Parijs Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation.
Fernandes’ performances last season showed exactly why he’s attracting so much attention. He established himself as one of the Premier League’s toughest midfielders to beat, particularly with his aggressive tackling and relentless work rate.
Simon Rusk, who coached Fernandes during his time at Southampton, believes those defensive qualities were always clear.
“It’s no surprise his tackling numbers are so high,” Rusk told Sky Sports. “From speaking to him and watching him closely, you could tell that would become one of his biggest strengths.”
Beyond his defensive grit, Fernandes also ranks among the Premier League’s top 10 midfielders for distance covered — proof of the high-intensity style he brings every game.
Interestingly, when he first joined Southampton, Fernandes wasn’t seen as a deep-lying midfielder. Former boss Russell Martin initially used him in a more advanced attacking role.
“He was playing a bit higher up, almost as a No.10,” Rusk explained. “But from our conversations, it was obvious he saw himself as a complete midfielder — more of a No.8 who could influence both ends of the pitch.”
That versatility has only grown stronger at West Ham, where he has mainly operated between a No.6 and No.8 role, adding more tactical intelligence to his already impressive physical qualities.
With his engine, tenacity, and rapidly improving all-round game, it’s easy to see why Europe’s top clubs are lining up. Now, the big question is whether Manchester United can strike a deal before their rivals make their move.
