Manchester United have been advised to pull out of the race to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, despite reports that the 21-year-old has agreed personal terms with the club. Legendary striker Teddy Sheringham, who played for both Manchester United and West Ham, voiced his doubts about the Portuguese star's suitability for the Red Devils.
Sheringham questions Fernandes' quality
Speaking to ComeOn, Sheringham said: 'I wasn't so impressed with Mateus Fernandes at West Ham last season. A lot of West Ham fans think he'll go on to bigger and better things but the jury's still out for me on Fernandes.' He added that Manchester United need 'top players' and warned that signing 'decent' players would lead to repeated failures, citing missed opportunities for Harry Kane and Declan Rice in the past.
Manchester United have identified Fernandes as a top summer target to bolster Michael Carrick's midfield after Casemiro's departure and with Manuel Ugarte available for transfer. The club has already agreed a £35m deal with Atalanta for Brazil star Ederson but wants at least one more midfielder.
Owen backs Fernandes move
Despite Sheringham's reservations, former England striker Michael Owen believes Fernandes would be a shrewd signing. 'I thought he was brilliant last season,' Owen told Metro on behalf of Casino.org. 'He's reasonably young which is another massive tick. I could see him and Kobbie Mainoo forming a great partnership.' Owen noted that West Ham's relegation to the Championship makes Fernandes 'very gettable'.
West Ham value Fernandes at around £80m, though the club is open to offers. Fernandes joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer. Arsenal have cooled their interest, while Tottenham have held talks with both West Ham and the player. New Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is also an admirer, but reports suggest Madrid expect United to secure the signing.
Fernandes impressed last season but could not prevent West Ham's relegation. United face a decision on whether to proceed with the transfer or heed Sheringham's advice to pursue world-class talent instead.
