Real Madrid's presidential election this weekend could decide Mateus Fernandes' future

Manchester United’s pursuit of Mateus Fernandes could hinge on the outcome of Real Madrid’s presidential election on Sunday, with the Spanish club’s interest in the West Ham midfielder contingent on who wins the vote.

Fernandes, 21, is widely regarded as the most valuable asset West Ham will sell following their Premier League relegation. The Portugal international is expected to leave the London Stadium before the end of the summer, with the club’s drop to the Championship making his departure all but inevitable.

Real Madrid’s involvement, however, is far from certain. According to Spanish reports, Los Blancos will only enter the running for Fernandes if Florentino Perez is re-elected to the presidency he has held since 2009. Perez has already confirmed that former United manager Jose Mourinho would return to the Bernabeu if he wins Sunday’s ballot, and AS reports that Mourinho “wants Fernandes” — with the club said to be working behind the scenes to deliver on his wishes ahead of any official move.

West Ham value Fernandes at around £80 million, though that figure may prove optimistic given rivals are aware the relegated club is under financial pressure and may need to sell. Real are understood to be delaying any firm action until after the vote.

Perez’s challenger for the presidency is energy tycoon Enrique Riquelme, who has outlined a contrasting transfer vision. Riquelme has indicated he would pursue Erling Haaland and has also spoken publicly about Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.

“We spoke with Rodri’s agent,” Riquelme told AS. “I know perfectly well that we then have to talk to City.”

For United, the election result carries significant implications. If Perez prevails and Mourinho is installed, Real become a serious rival for Fernandes. If Riquelme wins and pivots toward different targets, United’s path to signing the midfielder could clear considerably.