Mateus Fernandes makes United his first choice as Rashford future grows uncertain

Manchester United are the frontrunners to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes this summer, with the Portugal international reportedly identifying the club as his first choice ahead of interest from Paris Saint-Germain. The 21-year-old, who cost West Ham £42m when he arrived from Southampton a year ago, is expected to command a fee of around £60m following the Hammers’ relegation from the Premier League.

Fernandes made his senior international debut in a friendly against the United States earlier this year, coming on as a substitute for United captain Bruno Fernandes. He was not included in Roberto Martinez’s World Cup squad, which could smooth the path for a summer move to Old Trafford. Manager Michael Carrick is understood to be confident of completing the signing, with Fernandes seen as a long-term midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo as United prepare for a return to the Champions League.

The club’s midfield picture is further complicated by Manuel Ugarte’s unresolved situation, while Casemiro and Jadon Sancho are both set to depart when their contracts expire. Ederson, the Brazil international, is reported to be heading to Old Trafford, adding further shape to what is shaping up as a significant squad overhaul.

Elsewhere, the future of Marcus Rashford has been thrown into greater uncertainty by Barcelona’s reported move for Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon. The Spanish club are said to be on the verge of completing a £69.3m deal for Gordon, who, like Rashford, can operate across the forward line. Rashford spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Barcelona, but doubts persist over whether the club will exercise their £26m purchase option, and Gordon’s arrival would further reduce the likelihood of Rashford staying at Spotify Camp Nou.

With the World Cup beginning in a fortnight, some of United’s transfer business may not be concluded until later in the summer, though movement on several fronts appears imminent.