Manchester United are showing interest in Mateus Fernandes but West Ham have placed a steep price tag on him.
As Ineos prepare to kickstart their midfield overhaul at Manchester United, reports suggest Mateus Fernandes is a top target.
West Ham are on the brink of relegation heading into the final game of the Premier League calendar, and whether they survive or not will impact Mateus Fernandes’ price tag.
According to the Daily Mail, West Ham may demand up to £80 million for Fernandes. But if they drop into the Championship, Ineos have already seen how asking prices can be slashed.
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There have been several reports about Fernandes’ asking price, with other suggesting that he could cost £55m if West Ham are relegated.
United, and particularly Ineos, have shown interest in relegated stars before. Last summer, United were quoted £100m for Tyler Dibling.
Jason Wilcox admired Dibling and his breakthrough at Southampton made him an exciting target at Old Trafford.
However, United walked away from Dibling, and just weeks later he was sold to Everton for £40m. Less than half what United were quoted.
Clubs know United have money to spend this summer, and West Ham will want to make a profit on Fernandes having signed him for £42m. But if they are relegated, that price will surely drop.
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The recruitment record at Old Trafford has improved under Ineos, and that is mostly down to their refusal to overpay for targets.
Dibling and Carlos Baleba were both targets last summer, but Ineos refused to pay over the odds for both youngsters.
Instead, Ineos’ approach has been to highlight several targets and move on if one player is overpriced.
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If West Ham refuse to budge on Fernandes, Ineos will move on. But the reality is that Fernandes wants United and will likely push for a move if they drop into the Championship.
That asking price will come down, even if Ineos have to be patient.
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