- Manchester United target looks up to Bruno Fernandes
- Both Premier League midfield stars are from Portugal
- An overhaul of the Manchester United midfield is certain for this summer
Manchester United summer midfield target Mateus Fernandes has publicly stated that his biggest role model is captain magnifico, Bruno Fernandes.
The West Ham United midfielder gave a glowing verdict of his fellow countryman ahead of international duty with Portugal. He told Portuguese outlet O Jogo:
“The biggest one right now is Bruno [Fernandes] because of the player he already is. Back when I was at Sporting, I looked up to him and tried to learn from him. He plays in the same league as me, he has a lot of experience with the national team, and, in the Premier League, I try to watch him a lot. Without a doubt, he stands out.”
Both players previously played for Sporting Club de Portugal in the early stages of their careers. Whilst Mateus Fernandes was in the youth side (2016-21), Bruno Fernandes was making a name for himself, scoring goals in the Primera Liga, before earning a move to Manchester United.
With a summer midfield overhaul on the horizon, we could see the two Fernandes pairing up next season.
Fernandes 2.0?
Since signing for the Irons from Southampton for £40m last August, Mateus Fernandes has been an integral part of the machine that is attempting to stop West Ham from facing relegation for the first time in 15 years.
The third most expensive signing in the club’s history—behind only Sebastian Haller (£45m) and Lucas Paqueta (£51m)—Fernandes has been a breath of fresh air in an otherwise particularly stale West Ham side.
He has played 30 games in all competitions, scored three goals, and provided just as many assists.
But the Portuguese man shines most in his powerful ball-carrying and his status as a top-tier defensive contributor.
He ranks in the 83rd percentile for possession won among European midfielders, while also sitting in the 54th percentile for progressive carries.
His playing style mirrors that of Alexis Mac Allister in the 24/25 season, though the Liverpool midfielder demonstrates a touch more composure across the pitch.
How Could he fit into United?
With Casemiro set to leave Manchester United this summer—and the possibility of Manuel Ugarte following—INEOS must prioritise deepening midfield strength rather than repeating last summer’s focus on attacking reinforcements.
The likes of Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Sandro Tonali remain at the top of the list, whilst the likes of Fernandes, Carlos Baleba, Nathan De Cat, and Tyler Adams are also seen as options.
With United perched on the verge of Champions League qualification, a squad overhaul will be necessary, as the Red Devils seek greater depth to prepare for a more physically demanding season.
talkSPORT reports that scouts were sent to watch Mateus Fernandes in action. He could prove a vital addition to the squad, and with West Ham entrenched in the relegation zone, the Portugal international may once again be looking to force his way out of a side facing the drop, just as he did with Southampton last season.
