Mateus Fernandes has reportedly given Manchester United his preference over Real Madrid, but the deal still hinges on West Ham's valuation. Sources differ on the price, with figures ranging from around £80m to £85m and even above €90m in one report. United are exploring the move after West Ham's relegation made him more available.

Why West Ham's price is the real problem

The fee is the part that keeps this from looking straightforward. Sky Sports said West Ham value Fernandes at around £80m, TEAMtalk put the asking price at £85m, and Madrid Universal reported a demand in excess of €90 million.

West Ham signed Fernandes for an initial fee of £38m last summer, so whatever figure eventually sticks, the club are clearly looking to make a major profit on a player they only brought in a year ago.

TEAMtalk's Shaun Connolly put it plainly: "But he has given preference to Manchester United, and the club are continuing with their efforts to agree a suitable fee."

That is the most important part of this story. Fernandes preferring United matters, especially with Real Madrid also in the picture, but it does not close the gap between interest and a completed move.

United's position is better than Madrid's, but the fee still decides it

United's case is helped by the fact they are pushing from a strong position, finishing 3rd in the Premier League with 68 points from 37 matches. Real Madrid finished 2nd in La Liga with 86 points, so the competition for the same kind of target is obviously serious.

Connolly also said Fernandes is one of several players [Jose Mourinho] admires, but not a priority presently, adding that a Real Madrid approach would not be surprising. That keeps Madrid in the frame, even if the current reporting points to United having the edge.

The clean read here is simple enough. Fernandes' preference leans toward Manchester United, but West Ham's price is still the barrier, and the range being reported shows why this is not a deal close to being settled.

Compiled by the ClutchBrief Desk with AI assistance, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →