Manchester United and Michael Carrick have seven matches remaining as they aim to secure a spot in the Champions League next season, which is their main goal until the summer.
After successful summer signings, players like Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo have adapted well to the team.
Combined with Bruno Fernandes’ standout performances, the Red Devils are closer to returning to Europe’s elite competition.
If they qualify, the club will need to strengthen their squad, especially in midfield.
Veteran Casemiro is set to leave after four years, and Kobbie Mainoo needs a new midfield partner.
Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United is reportedly of interest to the club, especially if Newcastle fails to qualify for European football this season.
Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United is also being considered as a more affordable option compared to Tonali, who has become one of the top midfielders in the league.
Regarding the 21-year-old Fernandes, journalist Ben Jacobs provided an update on Manchester United’s interest.
In a talk with The United Stand, Jacobs mentioned, “Yes, there’s a chance he leaves West Ham, especially if they are relegated.”
He also noted that Jason Wilcox has shown interest, and Fernandes is viewed similarly to Joao Gomes.
Jacobs added that Manchester United management has had some ‘internal conversations’ about the West Ham player.
“Manchester United has done some data analysis and had initial talks, but it’s critical to understand that with summer approaching, conversations with many players’ representatives are standard practice for them,” Jacobs clarified.
“This process helps them gauge market conditions if a team faces relegation.”
“There have been discussions about players like Joao Gomes and Mateus Fernandes, but I’m not aware of any significant developments from Manchester United at this point,” Jacobs concluded.
This isn’t the first time Manchester United has shown interest in Mateus Fernandes; he was seen as an alternative to Carlos Baleba when he was at Southampton.
The Portuguese midfielder has become one of West Ham’s standout players in the current season, likely leading to a bigger move this summer.
Whether that move is to Old Trafford remains to be seen; as of now, he has six goal contributions (three goals and assists each) in 29 Premier League games.