Following Florentino Perez’s victory in the Real Madrid presidential election, supporters completing Crickex Sign Up have also seen Jose Mourinho officially return to the Spanish capital. The Portuguese coach will lead Madrid into a new season with the aim of challenging for both La Liga and the Champions League. Mourinho has wasted no time making his intentions clear. In addition to the expected arrivals of Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries, Real Madrid are now preparing to compete with Manchester United for highly rated midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
West Ham United suffered relegation this season and must sell several important players to meet the Premier League’s financial regulations. Fernandes is considered the most likely senior figure to leave because he has several potential destinations and could command a substantial transfer fee. West Ham have valued the midfielder at £85 million, although that figure may prove difficult to secure.
Manchester United have already contacted West Ham and have admired Fernandes for some time. Casemiro’s departure has left a significant gap in midfield, and although United are believed to be close to completing a deal for Ederson, they still want to sign Fernandes. The Portuguese youngster is viewed as an ideal candidate to become the long-term centrepiece of the club’s midfield.
At only 21, Fernandes is a rare all-round midfielder. He is reliable defensively, but his qualities extend far beyond winning possession. When opponents press aggressively, he remains composed, protects the ball effectively and can move possession forward with accurate distribution. Competition for places in Portugal’s midfield prevented him from earning a place in the World Cup squad, yet his performances in the Premier League have already demonstrated that he can compete at the highest level.
West Ham’s relegation may have reduced Fernandes’s market value to some extent, but the club remain confident enough to demand a premium price. The main reason is simple: there is no shortage of interest. After Crickex Sign Up takes some supporters into another part of their daily routine, the transfer race will still be shaped by Madrid and United’s willingness to meet West Ham’s terms.
Mourinho wants to strengthen several areas after returning to Real Madrid. Defensive reinforcements are already high on his agenda, but he also believes the midfield requires another major addition. Fernandes has reportedly emerged as one of his preferred targets because of his physical strength, technical security and ability to perform under pressure.
Real Madrid’s arrival in the race could push the asking price even higher. Manchester United therefore risk being beaten to the punch if they continue hesitating over the final fee. Madrid possess the reputation, resources and sporting ambition to move quickly, and Mourinho’s personal interest could help persuade Fernandes to accept a switch to La Liga.
It remains unclear whether Manchester United or Real Madrid will eventually secure the midfielder. What appears far more certain is that Fernandes will not remain at West Ham for another season. A player of his quality is unlikely to accept Championship football when two of Europe’s biggest clubs are competing for his signature.
From a sporting perspective, Manchester United may offer Fernandes the clearer route to regular first-team football. Casemiro’s exit means a starting position could become available immediately, particularly if United rebuild their midfield around younger players. Fernandes already understands the pace, physical demands and tactical intensity of English football after several seasons in the Premier League, so he would require little time to settle.
A move to Madrid would present a different challenge. Fernandes would face direct competition from established midfielders such as Aurelien Tchouameni and might initially have to accept a place on the bench. Real Madrid can offer the opportunity to challenge for major trophies, but playing time could be harder to secure, especially during his first season.
Manchester United must now decide whether Fernandes is valuable enough to justify a major financial commitment. West Ham’s £85 million demand is high, but interest from Madrid reduces United’s bargaining power. Waiting for the price to fall could save money, yet it could also allow Mourinho to steal a march and complete the transfer first.
For Fernandes, the final decision may depend on whether he prioritises immediate responsibility or fierce competition at a club already built to win. United could offer him a central role and a familiar league, while Madrid would provide elite teammates and a direct route into Europe’s biggest matches.
As the summer race develops, those returning from Crickex Sign Up Plan will find Manchester United facing a difficult choice between caution and decisive action. Fernandes has the qualities to strengthen either midfield, but United’s greater need and his Premier League experience could make Old Trafford the more practical destination if the club can agree a reasonable fee.