Michael Owen has urged Manchester United to prioritise a move for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, who is also a target for Arsenal. The 21-year-old Portuguese star is expected to leave the Hammers following their relegation from the Premier League.
Fernandes joined West Ham from Southampton last summer for £38m plus £4m in add-ons and impressed in his debut season. United have already agreed a £35m deal for Atalanta's Ederson but are keen to add another central midfielder, with Fernandes high on their list.
Owen, speaking to Metro, said: 'Personally if I was Michael Carrick, if I was Manchester United, I’d be getting Fernandes from West Ham. I think he’s very good. I think he’s exactly what they need.' He added that Fernandes could form a great partnership with Kobbie Mainoo.
West Ham are reportedly holding out for an £80m fee, but Owen believes the price is justified given Fernandes's age and quality. 'I thought he was brilliant last season,' Owen said. 'He’s reasonably young which is another massive tick.'
Fernandes is also attracting interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, but Owen believes United should move quickly, especially as they may miss out on Elliot Anderson to Manchester City.
