Mourinho Sets Sights on Fernandes as Real Madrid Threat to Man Utd Transfer Plans

Manchester United's summer transfer ambitions face a fresh complication, with Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid emerging as rivals for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes—the man the Red Devils have earmarked as their next major signing following Ederson's imminent arrival.

United have wasted little time rebuilding under Michael Carrick's stewardship, with the club's third-place Premier League finish securing Champions League football and considerable financial firepower for the window ahead. The Atalanta midfielder's move is already in advanced stages, though completion may have to wait until July.

The hierarchy's shopping list extends beyond Ederson, however. At least one more midfielder—possibly two—tops the wishlist, alongside a left-back and left-winger. Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton have all been mooted as potential targets.

Yet Fernandes has emerged as the priority after the Ederson deal concludes. According to reporter Ross Harwood, United are accelerating talks with the West Ham midfielder, with an agreement mooted around the £45m mark. The player has reportedly given his verbal consent on personal terms and is prepared to push for the move.

BBC Sport's Simon Stone suggested he would be "surprised" if the deal didn't materialise, though he acknowledged West Ham's hardline stance. The Hammers are demanding £80m and insisting they need not sell. Stone also noted that Fernandes, like Ederson, missed out on World Cup selection—a factor that could facilitate a swift conclusion.

The reporter added that a potential exit for Manuel Ugarte could ease matters for all parties involved.

That optimism now faces a significant threat. Spanish outlet AS reports that Mourinho has identified Fernandes as a target for his Real Madrid project, with the club already making overtures to secure the midfielder. The Portuguese coach's strengthened relationship with super-agent Jorge Mendes—who also represents Fernandes—appears to be working in Madrid's favour.

Liverpool and Arsenal have also registered interest in the 21-year-old, though Real Madrid's pulling power and Mourinho's direct involvement present a formidable obstacle.

West Ham's relegation to the Championship has paradoxically weakened their negotiating position. Owner David Sullivan may prove reluctant to oversee a mass exodus of his best assets, yet the club's drop in status makes retention of top talents considerably more difficult. The improved rapport between Real Madrid and Mendes, combined with Mourinho's influence, leaves United's pursuit far from certain.