Manchester United and Real Madrid vie for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes

Manchester United are actively pursuing West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, a 21‑year‑old who has expressed a preference for joining the English club. The Red Devils see the Portuguese international as a key part of Michael Carrick’s midfield rebuild and are prepared to meet West Ham’s reported £80 million valuation.

Real Madrid have also entered the race after Florentino Pérez secured a second term as club president, with José Mourinho expected to target Fernandes as a priority signing. United hope their financial advantage and the player's stated desire will give them an edge over the Spanish giants.

Both clubs view the transfer as a significant move ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with United aiming to strengthen the squad while Real Madrid look to bolster their roster under Mourinho’s renewed influence.