Manchester United have stepped up their interest in West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, but his price tag has seemed to fluctuate in recent weeks.
There are as many as 24 midfield targets linked to Manchester United this summer, but Ineos appear to prefer Premier League-proven stars.
Last weekend, Mateus Fernandes starred against Arsenal, but West Ham suffered defeat that put them on the brink of relegation.
Fernandes is a perfect Ineos signing because of his age and profile, but the 21-year-old’s price tag will depend on West Ham’s league status next season.
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How much Man Utd will have to pay for Mateus Fernandes
It has been reported that United have a £150m budget to spend on their midfield overhaul this summer.
Ideally, Ineos would like to sign three new midfielders with that transfer chest.
According to The Telegraph, Fernandes’ price tag will vary between £50m and £80m this summer, depending on whether West Ham survive or not.
If West Ham drop into the Championship, they will be forced to accept a smaller fee for Fernandes, meaning United may have a £50m bargain opportunity.
According to The Athletic, West Ham are already preparing for life without Fernandes. Club chiefs have conceded that he will be sold this summer, regardless of where they finish the season.
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How likely is West Ham’s relegation?
West Ham’s relegation has suddenly become an area of interest for United fans as it could lead to Fernandes moving to Old Trafford.
With just two Premier League matches remaining, West Ham sit 18th, in the relegation zone two points behind Tottenham.
Because of their inferior goal difference, West Ham will more than likely have to finish on more points than Tottenham to survive.
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West Ham’s remaining two matches are away to Newcastle United followed by a final home game of the season against Leeds United.
Meanwhile, Tottenham travel to Chelsea and then host Everton on the final day.
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