Manchester United are showing interest in West Ham star Mateus Fernandes, who made his breakthrough at Sporting Lisbon under Ruben Amorim.
The latest target in Manchester United’s search for midfielders this summer is Mateus Fernandes.
Fernandes starred against Arsenal this weekend as West Ham suffered a controversial defeat against the Premier League leaders.
United captain Bruno Fernandes has recommended Fernandes to United as a signing, and it seems Ineos could take his advice. There is an interesting history between the West Ham star and former Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim to explore.
Michael Carrick now has more wins than Ruben Amorim this season in seven fewer games! What does this tell you…?
Ruben Amorim chose to sell Mateus Fernandes for just £15m
Fernandes was one of the 27 academy graduates debuted by Amorim at Sporting, with the midfielder making his first-team breakthrough in 2022 under the Portuguese coach.
However, Fernandes made just 10 senior Sporting appearances before Amorim decided he should be sold.
Fernandes completed a £15m move to Southampton in 2024 and Amorim accepted it was his decision.
As quoted by HammersNews, Amorim said: “Obviously, we have to sell.
“What we lost is a very valuable young player who, in my opinion, has the characteristics to be a great player. But choices were made.
“Mateus was a player who cost us a lot, but when the board asked me if we can lose [Goncalo] Inacio, I say no. If we can lose Morten [Hjulmand], I say no. When they ask me if we have to hold on to Viktor [Gyokeres], I say we have to hold on to Viktor.
“Then, we have to sell.
“We really wanted to keep Mateus. Honestly, I also think Mateus would have liked to stay, despite having a great contract and going to a big league. It was a difficult moment for everyone, but we have to make choices.
“In the end, I, as the coach, also make them.”
What position would Man Utd be in NOW if Ruben Amorim was still head coach?
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Mateus Fernandes’ value has already tripled since Ruben Amorim snub
Fernandes’ time at Sporting under Amorim is very similar to that of Kobbie Mainoo’s at Old Trafford – overlooked and starved of opportunities.
Like Mainoo, Fernandes thrived after escaping from Amorim. Now at 21 years old, he is highly sought after in the Premier League.
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Fernandes made a £42m move to West Ham after impressing at Southampton, and while the Hammers don’t want to sell him this summer, their imminent relegation could force a deal.
Under Amorim, Fernandes was sold for £15m, but his value has already more than tripled, and United will be looking for a fee of around £45m to sign him in 2026.
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