UMVA has learned that Manchester United is prioritizing the signing of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, emerging as a top target for the club's summer transfer plans.
The Red Devils are said to be focusing on Fernandes and Alex Scott, rather than engaging in a bidding war for Elliot Anderson, who is reportedly favored to join Manchester City. This development comes after City's £120 million bid for Anderson, which included add-ons, was rejected by Nottingham Forest.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Manchester United's preference is to target players who are eager to join the team, such as Fernandes and Scott. This approach allows United to avoid a potentially costly and protracted bidding war with their rivals.
Fernandes, who was signed by West Ham from Southampton last summer for £38 million plus £4 million in add-ons, has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, following West Ham's relegation from the Premier League. West Ham is reportedly demanding an £80 million transfer fee for the player.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth is holding out for an £80 million fee for Alex Scott, who has caught the eye of United and Liverpool. The 22-year-old was one of Bournemouth's standout players last season and has traveled to the United States with England to help with their World Cup preparations.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Manchester United has already agreed a £35 million deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta but remains in the market for an additional midfielder this summer. The club's efforts to strengthen its squad are underway, with a focus on securing key targets.
