Liverpool have reportedly joined Manchester United in the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the Championship club placing a substantial valuation on one of their most prized assets.
The Portugal youth international was one of the few bright spots during West Ham's relegation campaign and has emerged as a sought-after target ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to reports from Portugal, both Liverpool and Manchester United have been tracking Fernandes for an extended period, while Manchester City also remain interested in the midfielder's development.
Liverpool enter increasingly competitive race
The latest reports suggest Liverpool are closely monitoring Fernandes as they continue planning for a new era under expected incoming manager Andoni Iraola.
While Manchester United are currently viewed as the frontrunners, Liverpool's entry into the race could complicate any potential move to Old Trafford.
Portuguese outlet A Bola claims both clubs have been following the midfielder for approximately two years, with scouts impressed by his technical ability, intelligence in possession and versatility in midfield.
Former Liverpool midfielder Jan Molby has previously spoken highly of Fernandes, describing him as an exceptional footballer with the attributes needed to thrive at the highest level.
Despite the growing interest, no formal negotiations are believed to have taken place between the interested clubs and West Ham.
Manchester United pushing hardest
Manchester United's interest appears more advanced at this stage.
New manager Michael Carrick is expected to oversee significant changes in midfield this summer following Casemiro's departure and continuing uncertainty surrounding Manuel Ugarte.
United have already moved for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, but reports indicate Fernandes remains high on their shortlist as part of a broader midfield rebuild.
The club appear focused on adding technically gifted midfielders capable of contributing immediately while also fitting into a longer-term project.
West Ham set ambitious valuation
The biggest obstacle to any deal may be West Ham’s asking price.
Relegation to the Championship has increased speculation over potential departures, but the Hammers are reportedly determined to maximise any sale involving one of their most valuable assets.
According to A Bola, West Ham want a fee close to £68.3 million (€80m).
That valuation is significantly higher than Manchester United’s current assessment of the player, with the report suggesting the Red Devils would prefer a figure closer to £47 million (€55m).
| Mateus Fernandes Transfer Timeline | Reported Fee |
|---|---|
| Sporting to Southampton (2024) | £12.8m (€15m) |
| Southampton to West Ham | £37.6m (€44m) |
| Current West Ham Valuation | £68.3m (€80m) |
| Manchester United Valuation | £47m (€55m) |
Source: reported transfer figures – 4 June 2026
The gap between those figures highlights why negotiations may prove challenging.
Why West Ham can afford to be patient
Despite relegation, West Ham's negotiating position remains relatively strong.
Fernandes is young, highly regarded and under contract, meaning the club are not under immediate pressure to accept discounted offers. Furthermore, interest from multiple Premier League clubs creates the possibility of a bidding war developing later in the window.
However, much may depend on the scale of the financial adjustments required following relegation and whether West Ham ultimately decide that a major sale is necessary to support their Championship rebuild.
Key Points
- Liverpool have joined Manchester United in tracking Mateus Fernandes.
- Manchester United are currently viewed as leading the race.
- West Ham reportedly want around £68.3m (€80m).
- Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City have all been linked.
- Sporting CP would benefit financially from any future transfer.
What’s next?
The situation is unlikely to move quickly, with no formal talks currently taking place. Interested clubs are expected to continue monitoring Fernandes during the World Cup period before deciding whether to test West Ham's resolve with official offers.
The key issue will be whether any club is willing to approach the Hammers' valuation. If West Ham hold firm, Fernandes could remain in east London for at least another season despite the growing interest from some of England's biggest clubs.
Would Mateus Fernandes be worth West Ham's £68 million asking price, or are Liverpool and Manchester United right to value him lower?
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