Manchester United have taken a significant gamble in their pursuit of West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the transfer potentially collapsing over a valuation dispute.
Fernandes Wants Old Trafford Move
The Portuguese international has made clear his desire to switch to Old Trafford following West Ham's relegation to the Championship. The 21-year-old is eager to secure Champions League football, and United remain confident that agreeing personal terms will pose little difficulty. However, the primary obstacle appears to be the asking price West Ham have placed on Fernandes.
West Ham have valued the midfielder at around £80 million and are keen to spark a bidding war, with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid also said to be circling. The Hammers believe Fernandes is the standout young talent in the Premier League, with the potential to command a fee in excess of £100 million in the near future.
United's Stance
United, however, are unwilling to meet that valuation. Senior figures at the club have weighed up the prospect of bringing Fernandes into Michael Carrick's squad. The view at Old Trafford is that, while Fernandes possesses enormous potential, he is yet to truly prove himself at the very highest level.
United are expected to table an opening offer later this week, though it will fall well short of £80 million. Whether the two clubs can find common ground on a fee remains to be seen. However, with Fernandes having determined that Old Trafford represents his ideal destination, United are opting not to rush and are willing to wait in hope of securing an agreement on their preferred terms rather than West Ham's.
Risks and Other Targets
That could however allow any other clubs to swoop in and outbid United. They could also miss out if West Ham refuse to let the player leave below the price they have set. United, meanwhile, have dismissed reports suggesting a £60 million deal has been struck with Newcastle to bring in Lewis Hall. While United continue to rate the England international highly, recruiting a left-back is not the pressing concern.
