Man Utd tell West Ham to forget ransom demands in Mateus Fernandes transfer row | Football | Sport

Manchester United have warned West Ham not to try and hold them over a barrel in negotiations for Mateus Fernandes, in a move which could backfire for the Red Devils and cause any potential deal to collapse. United have identified Fernandes as their top transfer target this summer, following their decision to withdraw from the pursuit of England midfielder Elliot Anderson.

The Portuguese international has made clear his desire to make the switch to Old Trafford, following West Ham’s drop into the Championship. The 21-year-old is eager to secure Champions League football, and United remain confident that agreeing personal terms will pose little difficulty. However, the primary obstacle appears to be the asking price West Ham have placed on Fernandes, which differs from the money United are willing to pay for him.

The Hammers have valued the midfielder at around £80m and are keen to spark a bidding war, with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid also said to be circling.

West Ham believe Fernandes is the standout young talent in the Premier League, with the potential to command a fee in excess of £100m in the near future.

United, however, are unwilling to meet that valuation. Senior figures at the club have weighed up the prospect of bringing Fernandes into Michael Carrick’s squad.

The view at Old Trafford is that, while Fernandes possesses enormous potential, he is yet to truly prove himself at the very highest level.

United are expected to table an opening offer later this week – though it will fall well short of £80m. Whether the two clubs can find common ground on a fee remains to be seen.

However, with Fernandes having determined that Old Trafford represents his ideal destination, United are opting not to rush and are willing to wait in hope of securing an agreement on their preferred terms rather than West Ham’s.

That could however allow any other clubs to swoop in and outbid United. They could also miss out if West Ham refuse to let the player leave below the price they have set.

United, meanwhile, have dismissed reports suggesting a £60m deal has been struck with Newcastle to bring in Lewis Hall. While United continue to rate the England international highly, recruiting a left-back is not the pressing concern.