- Bruno Fernandes hails potential replacement
- Mateus Fernandes’ Premier League impact
- Portuguese is on Manchester United’s radar
Bruno Fernandes has talked up Mateus Fernandes amid the Portuguese midfielder being linked with Manchester United. The Reds’ captain is believed to see him as his replacement at Old Trafford.
The hint from the captain of the Red Devils looks like the club will have a busy transfer window. United looks to build more muscle and secure the future of their midfielder. INEOS says the club wants to build a team around the captain to become genuine title contenders by 2028.
While ultimately, United will have to make a choice, Fernandes himself made the path easy for his club. The player is none other than West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes. SunSport claims United will spend at least £80million on a big name, and the Hammers player is on the wishlist.
Bruno Fernandes Wants Mateus To Replace Him
A midfield overhaul is on the cards this summer. The list of future midfielders is ever-growing, and Mateus Fernandes joins the list. While Elliot Anderson appears to be the top target, the West Ham United man could be a cheaper alternative.
Mateus Fernandes, 21, has excelled for West Ham, despite the club’s relegation battle. The Portuguese has scored three goals and made three assists this season. Moreover, he has won 158 duels, made 11 blocks, and has 30 interceptions.
Additionally, the youngster considers Bruno Fernandes his “Idol”, having played alongside him for Portugal and followed in his footsteps at Sporting Lisbon. The player said:
“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.”
The midfield shortlist seems to increase week after week but Mateus Fernandes is well and truly a possibility. He has continued to catch the eye, and a West Ham relegation could help aid a deal at a lower price.
The Future of Manchester United’s Midfield
Not one but two new midfielders could be on United’s wishlist this summer. With Casemiro set to leave when his contract expires, the club needs a replacement. Nottingham Forest’s Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba are targets.
Mateus Fernandes is also earning admiration, and his contract expires in 2027, although the Irons have the option to extend by a further year. SunSport claims Bruno Fernandes’ own future is uncertain as he plans to decide on his next steps after the World Cup.
West Ham are facing massive losses of £104.2 million should they suffer relegation. This means the club would be forced to sell players, and Matteus Fernandes could be valued at £40 million. INEOS have been successful so far in targeting and signing Premier League players at the expense of other top English clubs.
