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Revelations this week about Mateus Fernandes should have prompted Manchester United to take action and strategically position themselves to make a move for him.
Transfer possibility Fernandes
According to a report from The Peoples Person, it was suggested that if relegation-threatened West Ham United were to return to the Championship, Fernandes would be available via a release clause, something INEOS would be happy to accommodate.
Intriguingly, the report claimed that, faced with the risk of losing their summer signing for far less than the £42 million they paid to Southampton, the Hammers were considering cashing in for the Portuguese midfielder this winter.
So instead of letting him leave in the summer at a cut rate of £27m, they could now recoup a more reasonable amount.
As speculation gathered pace, attention turned to whether United could approach the east London club in January to beat Manchester City to the deal. A new twist has emerged.
Truth of Fernandes’ release clause
According to Claret and HughWest Ham were left baffled by the rumors surrounding Fernandes, who has arguably been their standout player this season.
They reveal:
“West Ham quickly put an end to the speculation and simply replied ‘not true’ when asked whether Fernandes had included the reported buyout clause in his deal.”
“Fernandes will not be available at a reduced price.”
From that revelation it is clear that if the Portuguese midfielder has to leave West Ham, it will be at a premium.
Fernandes a shining spark for struggling West Ham
Fernandes has been everywhere for West Ham this seasonwho emerged as a rare bright spark in a struggling side. He has completed the most passes, recoveries and tackles in the team, while ranking second in terms of chances created and assists.
Fernandes is versatile enough to operate in midfield and offers qualities that United could benefit from.
He has the potential to be one of the standout signings as United look to revamp the engine room, especially with Casemiro leaving and doubts remaining over Manuel Ugarte’s longer-term future.
While United may be willing to spend a lot of money to get this deal done, City’s interest makes the pursuit more difficult.
Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images
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