Manchester United target Mateus Fernandes was involved in a crucial survival clash for West Ham against Newcastle on Sunday.
On Sunday afternoon, Manchester United won 3-2 vs Nottingham Forest in the final Old Trafford outing of the season.
United fans waved goodbye to Casemiro, and just a few hours later, one of his potential replacements in Mateus Fernandes was in action for West Ham against Newcastle United.
Fernandes is expected to be sold by the Hammers this summer, with a price tag of between £50m-£80m depending on whether West Ham are relegated or not.
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The numbers behind Mateus Fernandes display vs Newcastle
West Ham suffered a 3-1 defeat at St James’ Park, leaving them in the relegation zone with one match remaining. If Tottenham beat Chelsea on Monday evening, their relegation will be confirmed.
Fernandes played the full 90 minutes on Tyneside against Newcastle, but he was unable to inspire West Ham to victory.
As per SofaScore, Fernandes earned a 6.9 rating for his performance.
| Mateus Fernandes | Match stats vs Newcastle |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Touches | 86 |
| Passes completed | 92% (65/71) |
| Key passes | 1 |
| Shots | 2 |
| Defensive contributions | 6 |
| Duels won | 33% (1/3) |
Fernandes was solid in possession, but defensively, he had a few blips.
On Sky Sports commentary, Fernandes was criticised by Alan Smith for a “shoddy” moment that led to Newcastle’s opener.
“How easy was that? It was so shoddy from West Ham. Fernandes let Barnes chip it and how much space did Woltemade have? So soft!” Smith said.
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Mateus Fernandes comments on his future
Reports suggest United are accelerating interest in Fernandes, and he has been rising up Ineos’ shopping list in recent weeks.
After losing to Newcastle, with West Ham on the brink of relegation, Fernandes was asked about his future in a post-match press conference.
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However, the Portuguese midfielder gave very little away: “Very hard to think about the future.
“One game to try and be good. It is difficult but it is football, anything can happen.”
Those last three words will give United hope that a deal can be done this summer, though.
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