Max Wilkins

Mon 13 April 2026 11:30, UK

West Ham United could lose Mateus Fernandes to Manchester United in the summer.

The Portugal international only signed for the Hammers at the start of the current season and has certainly made a positive impression.

He has become arguably the best player in claret and blue under Nuno Espirito Santo and is playing a key role in the relegation battle.

That has unsurprisingly sparked interest in his signature with just six Premier League games remaining to avoid the drop.

Manchester United have shown an interest in Fernandes, as a departure from the London Stadium could be possible at a price lower than expected.

Manchester United hierarchy set midfield transfer priority

The Red Devils have been on the up under Michael Carrick as his side now look almost certain to secure Champions League qualification.

Their form has been the best in the Premier League since his introduction, while the Irons sit fifth in the form table in the past three months.

Position	Club	Games played	Wins	Draws	Losses	Goals scored	Goals conceded	Goal difference	Points
1	Man Utd	10	7	2	1	20	11	9	23
2	Arsenal	11	6	3	2	22	10	12	21
3	Man City	10	6	3	1	18	9	9	21
4	Bournemouth	11	4	7	0	14	9	5	19
5	West Ham	11	5	3	3	18	14	4	18

There is still a realistic aim that the East London club’s recent performances could help them to avoid a drop into the Championship.

But if they don’t, Fernandes could find himself on his way out of E20 when the summer transfer window opens.

The Telegraph reported on Monday that the midfielder’s price could drop if West Ham are relegated, and that he is on Man United’s radar.

Transfer chiefs at Old Trafford, including Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell, have recognised the Red Devils’ need for a new midfielder to fix “the club’s oldest problem”.

Fernandes potentially faces an uncertain future at West Ham, and it could all hinge on what division Nuno finds himself in next season.

West Ham must avoid relegation to keep Fernandes

It would sum up the Hammers’ recent frustration if they were to lose the midfielder after just one season.

There has been plenty of annoyance surrounding the transfer strategy at the London Stadium over the years, but Fernandes has been a rare bright spark.

He has been excellent, and it would be so damning to finally conduct some good business before losing the Portuguese star due to being relegated.

The 21-year-old has plenty of time remaining on his contract, but a drop into the Championship would give the E20 side little chance but to sell him.

Man United are keeping tabs, but Nuno can end any speculation by keeping his side in the Premier League.