Manchester United are weighing up a move for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the Championship club valuing the 21-year-old Portugal international at around £80m, Sky Sports News understands.

West Ham signed Fernandes from his previous club last summer for an initial fee of £38m, and despite their relegation from the Premier League, are in no hurry to part with him unless that valuation is matched.

United see Fernandes as a priority target

Midfield reinforcement remains a key objective for Manchester United this summer, and decision makers at the club view Fernandes as one of the standout young players to have featured in the Premier League last season. Internally, there is belief he has the potential to develop into a player of Declan Rice's calibre.

United have been doing background work on a deal, and sources indicate that no formal contact between the two clubs has taken place yet. The Old Trafford side are treating the move as realistic in part because of West Ham's relegation, which complicates the Hammers' efforts to retain top talent.

West Ham weigh promotion push against big offers

West Ham have not ruled out Fernandes remaining at the club as they bid to win an immediate return to the Premier League. However, the club are under no illusions about the challenge that poses, particularly with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also reported to hold an interest in the Portuguese midfielder.

No formal bids have been submitted by any club, with West Ham adopting a wait-and-see approach as potential suitors weigh their options. The Hammers will not entertain a sale early in the window unless their £80m asking price is met in full.

A breakout season in east London

Fernandes was among the more consistent performers in the West Ham midfield across the second half of last season, making 42 appearances in all competitions — 36 of those coming in the Premier League. He contributed five goals and five assists under manager Nuno Espírito Santo.

The midfielder is also part of Portugal's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, underlining his growing reputation as one of the more exciting young midfielders in European football.