Manchester United's new midfielder: Another Portuguese Fernandes to be signed this summer if Arsenal…

Manchester United have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign the 21-year-old West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, a news report said.

The Portuguese Fernandes joined West Ham from Southampton in a £40 million deal last summer, and their relegation may ultimately lead to his departure. The Red Devils have already made contact with his representatives in the hope that their captain's international teammate may become an impactful mainstay in their midfield for the next decade or so.

Fernandes is primarily a box-to-box midfielder, though he is also capable of playing as a deep-lying playmaker. Although not an ideal midfielder when it comes to defensive responsibilities, Fernandes is known for his ball-carrying capacity, high pressing, and work rate. He was one of the few bright spots for the Hammers in an otherwise tragic season.

Arsenal are also interested in the youngster, and the tables may turn in the London club's favour if they finally manage to break their Premier League glory jinx this season. However, the Sporting academy product idolises Bruno Fernandes, which could ultimately impact his decision, TEAMtalk said in a report. United have already confirmed that their skipper will not be sold and have handed him a new contract despite the planned overhaul to build a younger squad potent enough to challenge domestic and European powerhouses.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes | AP

West Ham estimate that Mateus Fernandes should fetch them at least £80 million (€92.3 million). But if they manage to remain in the Premier League at the expense of Tottenham, the asking price is likely to increase, TEAMtalk added. The report also mentioned that United may spend £132 million on a package to get Fernandes and Atalanta’s Éderson. The 25-year-old Brazilian has close to 100 appearances in Serie A, and his contract is set to expire at the end of next season.

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It is almost certain that the former English champions will be signing multiple midfielders this summer.

Manchester United are already assured of a top-five finish with 65 points from 36 games.