Manchester United are reportedly leading the race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, with the midfielder valued at a whopping £80m. Fernandes has caught the eye of several top clubs, including Arsenal and Real Madrid, but United appear to be the most likely destination for the talented player.
The 24-year-old midfielder joined West Ham from Southampton last summer for £38m, and has since become one of their biggest assets. United are keen to bolster their midfield after Casemiro's departure on a free transfer, and have already signed Éderson from Atalanta.
Despite the strong interest from Madrid, United are confident that they can secure Fernandes's signature. However, sources have cautioned that there could be a push from the Spanish giants, who have just reappointed José Mourinho as their new manager.
West Ham are expected to lose a host of top talent after dropping into the Championship, with Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville among those likely to leave. The club lost £104.2m last year and need to raise more than £100m in transfer sales this summer.
Manchester City are also in the running for Elliot Anderson, the England and Nottingham Forest midfielder, and are likely to outbid United for his signature. Fernandes, however, is more within their price range.