United Move for West Ham Midfielder as City Miss Out

Manchester United are gearing up to launch an offer for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes this summer, dealing a significant blow to Manchester City's transfer ambitions.

The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder has apparently made clear that joining Michael Carrick's side is his preferred destination, according to reports emerging this week. United's interest was first flagged back in May 14, with the club having already established contact with Fernandes's representatives.

The Hammers are demanding £80million for their midfielder, who has caught the attention of several heavyweight clubs across Europe. City, Chelsea, and Newcastle United have all been monitoring the situation closely, but it appears United have stolen a march on their rivals.

Fernandes plays alongside fellow countryman Bruno Fernandes for Portugal's national team, and the prospect of linking up with his compatriot at Old Trafford appears to be a significant draw. United's hierarchy are keen to bolster Bruno's confidence by assembling a squad capable of challenging for the title, with Fernandes viewed as an ideal midfield partner who can receive possession across the pitch and offer serious competition to emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo.

West Ham's relegation to the Championship at the end of the season has strengthened United's negotiating position, with the club facing financial pressure to sell. This development comes as Enzo Maresca prepares to take over from Pep Guardiola at City, which may have impacted the defending champions' pursuit.

However, Paris Saint-Germain are also circling the young midfielder. The French giants, who won Ligue 1 this season, represent an alternative option for Fernandes. Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness believes PSG could prove attractive, though he anticipates a bidding war pushing the price towards £70million. "It could get as high as £70m," Wyness told Football Insider. "PSG is going to be very attractive for Fernandes, but he may well stay in the Premier League, and it's who's going to step up and pay that amount. I expect to see that deal being done as we're speaking right now behind the scenes and announced pretty quickly in the window."

United appear determined to get their man, with plans to move forward on the deal in the coming weeks.