Manchester United fans could have an update on Mateus Fernandes by this time next week. United have not submitted a bid for Fernandes at this stage, but the new financial year for clubs is four days away. Boardrooms earmark July 1 because the date represents a new financial year. The transfer market should spark into life next week, meaning United and Tottenham could act on their interest by opening formal talks with West Ham.
Fernandes valuation and competition
West Ham value Fernandes at £85m and the noise from the capital suggests Tottenham are willing to meet that valuation, but Spurs also have an interest in Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, which could be a factor. United faced competition to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig last summer but still came out on top. Newcastle offered a slightly higher package to Leipzig, but United were confident that Sesko preferred a move to Old Trafford.
Tottenham can offer better wages to Fernandes, but they have finished 17th in the Premier League in successive seasons. United finished third last season, meaning they can offer Champions League football. If both Tottenham and United offer similar financial packages, the decision will come down to Fernandes.
Ederson deal and midfield plans
United are working to agree their second deal of the summer transfer window after striking an agreement with Atalanta to sign Ederson, who was due to feature in pre-season before receiving a late call-up to Brazil's squad. The possibility of Ederson completing his medical in the United States while the World Cup is taking place was mooted, but the midfielder is now due to complete his transfer after the tournament concludes.
Regarding other potential incomings, a third midfield signing has not been ruled out. United would like to offload Manuel Ugarte, whose potential exit would help offset the cost of an incoming player. Ugarte picked up an injury in Uruguay's defeat to Spain in the early hours of Saturday morning and it remains to be seen what impact that could have on his chances of a move away.
Left side and striker targets
The left side of the squad is still being looked at, although at this stage it feels like United will sign a left forward or a left back, not both. West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville is being monitored. United have a list of targets for each position that have been approved by the data department, and Summerville is one of the names on the left wing shortlist. West Ham insist they do not have to sell their best players, but they are considered attainable by Premier League clubs.
United are looking at striker options and will look to do a deal if an experienced forward can be brought in to ease the burden on Benjamin Sesko. Danny Welbeck has been considered in the past.
Outgoings: Onana and Rashford
Regarding outgoings, United goalkeeper Andre Onana is closing in on another loan to Trabzonspor, but the club will refuse to engage with Barcelona over arranging another loan deal for Marcus Rashford. United have adopted a patient approach with Rashford. The United academy graduate is currently representing England at the World Cup, but he is set to report for pre-season once he has had a break after the tournament.
