By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
Fabrizio Romano has warned Manchester United not to play hardball with West Ham over the transfer fee for Mateus Fernandes.
It’s something of an open secret that the 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder is highly regarded at Old Trafford, but there appears to be a reluctance to meet West Ham’s £85 million valuation.
Manchester United had initially prioritised the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, but were completely blown out of the water when Manchester City saw a £120 million bid rejected for the England midfielder, who is expected to start against Croatia this evening.
Romano Issues Warning
The Italian transfer journalist has revealed that because of the calibre of clubs also chasing Fernandes, Manchester United would be foolish to spend too much time trying to grab a bargain from West Ham.
Speaking on his morning update, Romano said:
“West Ham start at £85m, ideally they wanted £100m. Manchester United want to spend less. There are more clubs interested, Manchester United need to be careful.”
It certainly sounds like a warning to the Old Trafford hierarchy.
Jorge Mendes Knows The Market
It is likely Romano has been briefed by Fernandes’ agent Jorge Mendes, who will be fully aware of what it will take to prise the midfielder away from West Ham.
And with Real Madrid, Arsenal and PSG all believed to be interested in last season’s signing from Southampton, Michael Carrick’s side will not have a clear run at the player.
Quite the opposite.
Snooze And You Lose
Not so much snooze and you lose, but if Manchester United spend too much time haggling, they could very well miss out on one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
West Ham have made it abundantly clear they are under no pressure to sell cheaply.
And with Daniel Kretinsky’s billions in the background, the days of clubs trying to bully the Hammers into accepting cut-price offers may finally be over.
Perfect storm for us…..the player has no get out clause in his contract so even if he digs his heels in and says its Manure only club for him well they will have to meet the valuation or Fernandes is staying!