Manchester United (Man U) has put Portuguese midfield prodigy Matheus Fernandes (22, West Ham United), whom it once overlooked, back on its recruitment list.
British media including the Telegraph and The Sun reported on the 5th (Korean time) that United has sharply increased its interest in Matheus Fernandes, who has been starring for West Ham, and that captain Bruno Fernandes (32)'s strong recommendation and the player's "love for Man U" have combined to send transfer rumors into overdrive.
Man U had an opportunity to sign Matheus Fernandes last season. Matheus Fernandes had at that time been relegated with Southampton. However, under manager Rúben Amorim, Man U rejected the signing of Matheus Fernandes.
In the meantime, West Ham signed Matheus Fernandes for a total of 42 million pounds including options (about 83.9 billion won). Matheus Fernandes produced 5 goals and 4 assists in 39 matches across all competitions, including 3 goals and 3 assists in 33 league matches, despite the team's poor form.
Especially, Matheus Fernandes had the honor of being called up to the senior national team for the first time last March. He made his Portugal debut when he came on as a second-half substitute in a friendly against the United States.
Central midfielder Matheus Fernandes named Bruno Fernandes as his role model before his national team debut, expressing his respect.
In an interview, Matheus Fernandes said, "My biggest role model right now is Bruno, who is a complete player. I have admired him and tried to learn from him since his Sporting CP days."
He added, "Bruno plays in the same league and has extensive experience with the national team and in the Premier League. I try to watch him a lot. Without a doubt, he is exceptional."
Portugal national team coach Roberto Martínez also heaped praise on Matheus Fernandes' development, saying it was "incredible," and hinted at the possibility of including him on the roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.
Man U is working to reinforce the midfield, where Casemiro (34)'s departure after this season has become a foregone conclusion. In addition to Matheus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali (26, Newcastle United) and Elliot Anderson (24, Nottingham Forest) are on the recruitment list.
Man U is also monitoring Adam Wharton (22, Crystal Palace), João Gomes (25, Wolverhampton) and Aurélien Tchouaméni (26, Real Madrid). Man U secured the future by signing Koby Mainu (21), who once looked set to leave the team, to a new contract through 2031.<
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