Arsenal have joined the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, dealing a potential blow to Manchester United's summer transfer plans. The former Southampton star, valued at £42 million, has attracted interest from several top clubs after an impressive season in east London.
Fernandes on the Radar of Top Clubs
Fernandes, who joined West Ham last summer for £42 million, has scored four goals and provided three assists in 35 appearances this term. However, the Hammers currently sit in 18th place, occupying the final relegation spot, two points behind Tottenham with two games remaining. Their fate is out of their hands as they face Newcastle United away and Leeds at home, hoping for a favor from Chelsea.
Manchester United have been long-term admirers of the Portuguese international, with club captain Bruno Fernandes reportedly recommending his countryman to the club's decision-makers. The Red Devils are set to undergo a midfield rebuild this summer following Casemiro's departure, which leaves a gap in the center of the park. With Manuel Ugarte's future also uncertain, Kobbie Mainoo could be the only senior midfielder remaining. United have considered Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton, and Carlos Baleba, while also holding ambitious interest in Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni.
Arsenal's Midfield Concerns
Arsenal, however, are now weighing up a move for Fernandes as they seek to bolster their own midfield options. Mikel Arteta's regular midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard has been effective, but depth has been a concern. Odegaard has struggled with injuries this season, and the long campaign has taken its toll on Zubimendi, prompting Arteta to deploy Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield as an alternative. Christian Norgaard, signed from Brentford last summer, has managed just 56 minutes in the Premier League this season, highlighting the need for reinforcements.
Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring Fernandes, according to reports, making the race for his signature highly competitive. West Ham will find it difficult to retain their prized asset if they are relegated, and a summer exit appears likely.
