Manchester United have been advised to pull out of the race to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, despite agreeing personal terms with the player. Legendary striker Teddy Sheringham, who played for both clubs, urged the Red Devils to abandon the £80m pursuit, arguing that the 21-year-old is not of the calibre required to restore the club to the top.
Sheringham's Verdict on Fernandes
Speaking to ComeOn, Sheringham said: 'I wasn't so impressed with Mateus Fernandes at West Ham last season. A lot of West Ham fans think he'll go on to bigger and better things but the jury's still out for me on Fernandes. Manchester United need top players. They've already got enough decent players. They need to buy the top players or they will miss out again and again.'
Sheringham compared the situation to missed opportunities for Harry Kane and Declan Rice, adding: 'Sir Alex Ferguson wouldn't have let that happen. Sir Alex always brought in the top players and they came in and led by example. It's not about having good players. You want great players playing for Manchester United.'
United's Midfield Overhaul
Manchester United have already secured a £35m deal with Atalanta for Brazil World Cup star Ederson, but manager Michael Carrick is seeking at least one more midfielder. Casemiro left Old Trafford at the end of the season, and the club is open to offers for Manuel Ugarte. Fernandes, who joined West Ham from Southampton last summer, impressed individually but could not prevent the Hammers' relegation to the Championship.
Opposing View: Owen Backs the Move
Former England striker Michael Owen disagrees with Sheringham, calling Fernandes a 'very good pick' and predicting a strong partnership with Kobbie Mainoo. Owen told Metro: 'I thought he was brilliant last season. He's reasonably young which is another massive tick. I could see him and Kobbie Mainoo forming a great partnership. I personally would be making him my first choice.'
Transfer Race and Valuation
West Ham value Fernandes at around £80m and are open to offers. Tottenham have emerged as United's main rival, having held talks with both the player and the club. Arsenal have shifted focus to other targets, while new Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is an admirer but expects United to secure the signature.
