Manchester United Set Budget Limits for Mateus Fernandes Transfer

Manchester United is preparing to finalize a deal for Mateus Fernandes, with the Portuguese midfielder eager to join his idol Bruno Fernandes at the club.

Although the transfer initially appeared straightforward, West Ham's £80 million valuation has delayed progress, while interest from Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and other Premier League clubs has added complexity.

Reports indicate that Manchester United is ready to submit an opening offer, but West Ham is expected to reject any bid below their asking price.

INEOS Aims to Avoid Past Transfer Overpayments

The club’s new co-owners, INEOS, are focused on securing Fernandes without repeating previous costly mistakes made under the Glazer ownership.

On X (formerly Twitter), the reliable source Sully stated, “Focus is on Mateus atm. Deal advancing well but we don’t want to overpay like we’ve done in the past.”

During the Glazers’ tenure, Manchester United frequently paid inflated fees, with the recent Rasmus Hojlund transfer cited as an example. Conversely, Atalanta's negotiation for Ederson suggests that the new owners have adopted a more cautious approach.

United’s Transfer Budget for Mateus Fernandes

Fans may wish for the club to meet West Ham’s demands promptly, but Manchester United is mindful of market precedents and intends to cap their offer.

The Manchester Evening News reports that United will not exceed £70 million for Fernandes but expects to pay more than £58 million, which would set a new record for a Championship club sale.

“The 21-year-old is certain to leave this summer, and West Ham are aware of that, which is damaging their negotiating power,” the report states.

“Fernandes will become the record holder for a sale for a Championship club (£58m), but United will not want to pay in excess of £70m for him.”

Negotiation Strategy Involving Fernandes and Summerville

Manchester United is also interested in winger Crysencio Summerville, with a combined offer for both players potentially reaching £110 million.

“West Ham are highly unlikely to turn down around £110m for Fernandes and Summerville, despite what Kretinsky may say,” the report adds.

West Ham values Summerville at £50 million, meaning United aims to negotiate approximately £20 million less than the combined valuation for the two players.

Michael Carrick is reportedly counting on Fernandes to strengthen the midfield as part of the team’s overhaul ahead of the upcoming season.

Feature image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images