Manchester United are leading the race to sign West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes ahead of Arsenal.
A midfield rebuild is underway at Old Trafford with a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta already agreed. United want to sign at least two midfielders this summer – possibly three if Manuel Ugarte leaves.
Elliot Anderson has been a top target but the Nottingham Forest star favours a move to Manchester City. Forest are also looking for a British record transfer fee with United reluctant to be drawn into a bidding war.
Fernandes has emerged as another target after an impressive season in east London and is expected to leave the Hammers this summer just a year on from his move from Southampton.
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West Ham are looking for a fee of £80million for the Portuguese star with United increasingly confident of striking a deal.
The Times now report Michael Carrick’s side have moved clear of Arsenal in the race to sign the 21-year-old. Fernandes is admired at the Emirates with Mikel Arteta keen to add to his midfield options off the back of his side’s Premier League title success.
While the Gunners have been actively pursuing the player in recent weeks, they do not intend to pay West Ham’s valuation.
Fabrizio Romano also reports talks have taken place between United officials and Fernandes’ agent, Jorge Mendes, in anticipation of an initial bid being lodged.
United could face competition from elsewhere however with Jose Mourinho interested in signing him for Real Madrid, with ‘The Special One’s return to the Bernabeu confirmed on Thursday.
Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with interest with reports in France claiming they have begun talks to take him to Parc des Princes.
Fernandes was signed by West Ham from Southampton for £38m plus £4m in add-ons last year.
Any move to Old Trafford would see him link up with countryman Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.
Reports have suggested the United captain has personally recommended his namesake to the United board as they seek to bolster their options ahead of their return to the Champions League next season.