Man United take drastic financial measures to fund summer business as Mateus Fernandes becomes primary target
Manchester United’s summer rebuild appears to be gathering pace, with West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes earmarked as the club’s primary midfield target.
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According to the Daily Mail, the 21-year-old has moved to the top of United’s shortlist, and they’re already making major moves to fund the transfer.
United have been linked with a move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
However, United are reluctant to enter an expensive bidding war with Manchester City, who have already seen a £120 million offer rejected for the midfielder.
That has forced United to look elsewhere in their search for midfield reinforcement, and Fernandes is seen as a promising option.
Despite missing out on a place in Portugal’s World Cup squad, Fernandes is still one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have all been linked with Fernandes, but reports suggest United have moved into a strong position in the race for his signature.
While no official offer has been submitted, discussions have already taken place with the player’s representatives, and personal terms are not expected to present any difficulties should negotiations advance.
West Ham’s situation could also play a major role in any potential deal.
Following their relegation from the Premier League, the Hammers are under pressure to generate revenue through player sales before the end of the month in order to meet financial regulations.
Fernandes is one of the few high-profile assets on West Ham’s roster, and he could be the key to straightening out their financial issues.
However, clubs are reluctant to match their £80m asking price, with United hoping that West Ham would shift their stance as the transfer window progresses.
United have already brought in Ederson from Atalanta in a £39m deal, but they’ll need to sell players to fund any further additions.
Meanwhile, United are already taking steps to improve their financial outlook.
They recently completed a refinancing package that extends part of the club’s debt until 2031 while increasing overall borrowing.
The agreement also provides additional cash that could be used for general operations and potentially give them more wiggle room in the transfer market.
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