Mateus Fernandes is reportedly desperate to join Manchester United this summer, but West Ham's £80 million asking price means manager Michael Carrick must explore every avenue to secure the deal.
The West Ham midfielder is one of the most sought-after players of the summer transfer window, with Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain all expressing interest. The Hammers are reluctant to part with Fernandes but may be forced to sell to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
West Ham's relegation to the Championship adds further urgency for the 21-year-old to make a decision, as he considers a return to the Premier League or a move abroad. This situation is familiar to Fernandes, who previously left Southampton after their relegation.
Fernandes joined West Ham in the summer of 2025 for £38 million and impressed throughout the recent campaign. Now, another transfer appears likely, with Manchester United reportedly his preferred destination.
The club is confident that personal terms can be agreed, and Fernandes is eager to experience Champions League football. However, one obstacle remains: his price tag.
West Ham hopes to trigger a bidding war among interested clubs, with an asking price of £80 million. With Premier League champions Arsenal and Champions League winners PSG also keen, United could face stiff competition.
United is expected to submit an opening offer later this week, though it will be well below West Ham's valuation. They view Fernandes as a player with enormous potential but limited top-level experience.
Carrick is determined to add proven talent to his squad as the club prepares for a return to European competition next season. A third-place Premier League finish last term earned the manager praise, and he aims to build on that momentum.
Spending the majority of their budget on Fernandes does not appear to be part of United's plans, but his strong desire to join Old Trafford remains a significant factor. United could use this ambition to negotiate a more favorable deal with West Ham.
A similar scenario unfolded last summer with the Newcastle-Liverpool saga involving Alexander Isak. The player was desperate for the move, the club was reluctant to sell, but ultimately the transfer was completed.
West Ham may reflect on the chaos Newcastle endured and decide it is wiser to avoid unsettling their squad as they push for an immediate Premier League return. Southampton would also benefit from a sale, having retained a 15 percent sell-on clause when Fernandes left for West Ham.
