West Ham United's incoming majority owner Daniel Kretinsky has issued a warning to potential buyers, but Manchester United are aware of the reality. The Czech billionaire, set to become the club's biggest shareholder, sat down with The Times to discuss the boardroom chaos at the London Stadium and outline plans for an immediate Premier League return.
Kretinsky's Bold Claims
“We have a very credible strategy,” Kretinsky said. “We don’t need to sell the players for financial reasons. We are doing this to make sure we are promoted back to the Premier League immediately. That is our only goal.” He added, “Key players are waiting for us. They want to see there is a real chance of keeping the squad together. What matters is funding, strategy and consistency. We have spoken to all of them. They need to see that our project is real and serious. Promotion is our only goal.”
While these comments may reassure West Ham supporters, they are detached from reality. Premier League clubs hold the upper hand over Championship sides, and relegation triggers a scramble for talent.
Manchester United's Interest
Manchester United have identified an opportunity to sign two of West Ham's best players this summer, including midfielder Mateus Fernandes. West Ham have placed an £85 million price tag on the 21-year-old, but that is merely a starting point for negotiations. Fernandes has suffered consecutive Premier League relegations, moving from Southampton to West Ham last year, yet he is seen as a player with immense potential.
Fernandes is certain to leave this summer, and West Ham are aware of this, weakening their negotiating position. He could become the most expensive sale from a Championship club, surpassing the current record of £58 million, but United are reluctant to pay over £70 million.
Double Deal Possible
Despite Kretinsky's insistence that West Ham do not need to sell, the club will not block a player who wants to leave, especially if a high fee can be reinvested. The Championship is a grueling division, and promotion is never guaranteed, even with parachute payments. West Ham need fully committed players, and Fernandes may be tempted by interest from United and Real Madrid.
United are also considering a double transfer, with Crysencio Summerville emerging as a target for the left wing. West Ham value Summerville at around £50 million. United have long sought to strengthen the left flank; Matheus Cunha, signed last year, tends to drift centrally, so a backup is needed for a 60-plus game season.
West Ham are highly unlikely to reject approximately £110 million for Fernandes and Summerville, regardless of Kretinsky's statements. Some United fans may question signing players from a relegated team, but history shows it can be successful. Liverpool benefited from signing Andy Robertson from Hull City and Georginio Wijnaldum from Newcastle, and many Premier League clubs have poached talent from relegated sides.
