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Manchester United’s efforts to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes appear to have taken a positive turn, as the Red Devils continue their search for the ideal midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo ahead of the forthcoming season.

The English youngster experienced a major resurgence under Michael Carrick during the latter half of the 2025/26 campaign, which earned him a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad. Mainoo formed a strong partnership with Casemiro in United’s midfield and has already committed his future to Old Trafford until 2031.

With Casemiro now departing the Theatre of Dreams, United are determined to find a suitable replacement. Reports indicate that the club have already signed Atalanta’s Ederson to help fill the void left by the Brazilian midfielder’s exit.

Although the Atalanta star impressed last season, the club’s recruitment team are also targeting a Premier League-proven option to further reinforce their midfield. Fernandes has reportedly emerged as United’s top priority for this summer window.

Despite West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League after a disappointing 2025/26 season, Fernandes stood out as their brightest performer. The Portuguese midfielder recorded five goals and five assists across 42 appearances in all competitions.

His displays have already convinced the decision-makers at Old Trafford, who initially had their sights set on Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. However, Forest’s high valuation of the player, coupled with interest from Manchester City, has pushed United to pursue alternatives.

Fernandes has since emerged as a key target, with many believing that the 21-year-old still has significant potential for growth. Yet, Tottenham Hotspur’s increasing interest in the midfielder has added complexity to United’s pursuit.

According to reports shared by The Peoples Person, United have already reached an agreement in principle with Fernandes’ representatives ahead of a potential summer switch. An encouraging update has now surfaced that could delight fans.

The Manchester Evening News reports that United could finalise a deal for Fernandes by the end of the month, taking advantage of West Ham’s current financial situation. The report notes: “There is a reason for United playing it cool at the moment, and that is the belief that West Ham need cash before June 30 to balance the books and avoid the risk of breaching Premier League or EFL financial regulations.”

“They posted a £104 million loss last year, and that financial report made it clear that player sales were necessary, even without relegation.”

“Relegation to the Championship represents the worst-case scenario for the London Stadium side, and they will be forced to raise funds through player sales this summer. That’s also why winger Crysencio Summerville has emerged as another player United are monitoring.”

However, the same report cautions that any hopes of securing Fernandes for a reduced fee could be challenged by growing competition for his signature. It reads: “But if United are hoping to try and get a bargain for Fernandes later in June, they really need a clear run at the player and a desire from the 21-year-old to join the club.”

“If Tottenham become serious rivals for his signature, then it might create a bidding war, giving West Ham exactly what they want.”

Despite this, United remain favourites to land Fernandes as things stand.

If United aim to contend with the top clubs domestically and in Europe next season, reinforcing their midfield is crucial. Securing Fernandes would represent an important move in that direction, and INEOS cannot afford to make mistakes in the transfer market this summer.