Manchester United could end up being the big winners from West Ham’s relegation this past weekend, with Mateus Fernandes’ price set to drop.
With the season over, transfer season is upon us, and Mateus Fernandes to Manchester United currently looks as likely as any signing this summer.
United are leading the transfer chase for Fernandes, according to reports, with his non-involvement in the World Cup meaning he looks even more enticing.
All along, Fernandes’ asking price has been debated as it was set to depend on whether West Ham were relegated or not. Now, United have learned what it will take.
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Does the potential transfer depend on West Ham getting relegated?
How much Mateus Fernandes will cost Manchester United
With relegation, West Ham are in a position where they can’t demand top price for Fernandes, which seemed to be £80m if they had miraculously survived.
But now, The Athletic’s West Ham correspondent Roshane Thomas has claimed that the updated demands have been set.
The reporter told The Athletic FC podcast that Fernandes could cost United between £50m and £60m this summer, which is very affordable.
Of course, United’s bidding will probably start closer to £40m, but an agreement should be fairly straightforward, considering the price is fair for such a talent.
Talks between United and Fernandes have been widely reported, so a transfer could accelerate fairly quickly, with West Ham needing to raise £150m.
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Fernandes could follow Ederson to Old Trafford
While a deal for Fernandes could move forward at any stage, he is likely to be United’s second signing of the summer at this rate.
This is because United are in advanced talks for Ederson from Atalanta for a fee of £34m.
According to the reliable United X account, SullyTalkz, United have been in Italy for talks over signing Ederson, and are closing in on a deal.
The expectations from all parties are now that the agreement will soon be reached, with the 26-year-old rejecting everyone else, only wanting United.
These two midfielders would be a solid start to United’s rebuild, but one additional starter is needed.
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