Manchester United and West Ham have initiated talks over the transfer of Matheus Fernandes, aiming to complete the signing this month. Reports suggest a five-year deal with a maximum weekly wage of £150,000.

Sky Sports UK reports that Manchester United have reached out to West Ham United, preparing an initial offer for Matheus Fernandes. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder is now seen as a key target, and United believe they are firmly in the lead for his signature.

West Ham consider Fernandes one of the best young players in the Premier League last season, outperforming Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo. As a result, they value him between £80 million and £85 million and are in no rush to sell. Fernandes scored three goals and provided four assists in the Premier League last season, and the Hammers predict he could become another Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal for £105 million in 2023.

Manchester United are unlikely to accept such a transfer fee, and both sides must find a compromise to complete the deal. West Ham have not ruled out Fernandes staying to help them return to the Premier League quickly, but they also recognize this goal is difficult—or even impossible—to achieve, given Fernandes himself wants to leave.

If forced to sell Fernandes, West Ham hope to do so early in the transfer window to raise £100 million before the new financial year starts on July 1. They signed Fernandes last year for a fixed fee of £38 million plus £4 million in add-ons, and according to the agreement, 15% of any future transfer fee will go to his former club, Southampton.

West Ham are currently in a state of leadership vacuum, as former club chairman David Sullivan has resigned from the board, stalling transfer progress. Sullivan had previously handled transfer matters personally, and now his son Jack serves as the temporary contact for such affairs.

Transfer expert Ben Jacobs said: "Fernandes has expressed his willingness to join Manchester United. Currently, negotiations between United and West Ham have also begun. United are trying to reduce the £80-85 million asking price or renegotiate the payment structure. United's football director Jason Wilcox previously signed Fernandes at Southampton. Real Madrid have also made initial contact with the player, while Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are also among the clubs interested. However, United not only highly value Fernandes's abilities but also intend to move quickly."

Arsenal indeed once considered signing Fernandes, but he is not Arteta's first choice. Due to West Ham's asking price, Arsenal have now abandoned their pursuit.

Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also on the list of clubs rumored to be interested in Fernandes. Notably, José Mourinho, who recently returned to the Bernabéu, admires his young compatriot. However, Fernandes's first choice is to join Manchester United, making a move to Old Trafford the most likely outcome.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Manchester United have contacted West Ham to discuss the transfer fee for Fernandes. United hope to lower the price and will not pay an exorbitant amount. The final solution may involve a fixed fee paid in installments plus add-ons.

Romano explained: "Manchester United's officials are in formal negotiations with Fernandes's agent to discuss contract details. At the same time, they are also in contact with West Ham to explore the transfer fee amount. United will not pay an inflated price, so they are seeking to renegotiate—either lowering the £85 million asking price or adding certain clauses. Talks are ongoing."

Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany said: "Fernandes is now one of Manchester United's top priorities. United already know his personal terms, and they believe that as long as an agreement on the transfer fee is reached with West Ham, the player's contract will not be an issue. United are preparing a bid, but it has not yet been submitted to West Ham."

There are rumors that Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement with Fernandes for a five-year contract plus an optional one-year extension. His weekly wage, including bonuses, could reach up to £150,000.