Exclusive: Liverpool call it quits on £80m star with Man United set to steal him

Manchester United are in pole position to sign a Premier League star after Liverpool backed out.

The Times reports that Manchester United are now in pole position to sign Matheus Fernandes from West Ham United. The Portuguese midfielder is widely expected to move this summer after relegation with the Hammers.

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Anfield Watch understands that Liverpool did express genuine interest in signing Fernandes. The midfielder is viewed as a serious prospect and one who could develop into a star at Anfield.

However, the Reds were hoping to pay significantly less than the £80m figure now quoted at West Ham. It's understood that Liverpool felt their valuation was realistic until the likes of United expressed a willingness to pay more, driving the asking price much higher.

As a result, Liverpool are out of the race. That's a blow as Fernandes is a fantastic midfielder and exactly the kind of player that the squad lacked last season - someone who can consistently win the ball back.

We pitched the idea of the Reds signing him back in May 2025 after a great debut campaign with Southampton. West Ham eventually won the race to get Fernandes and he's once again proven himself at the Premier League level.

It now seems United are the most likely to get the midfielder, which does hurt. But who knows, perhaps Liverpool change their mind late in the game?

Matheus Fernandes: Situation Summary

Club Status and Transfer Speculation

As of 12 June 2026, Mateus Fernandes remains a West Ham United player. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder, who joined the Hammers in August 2025, has become one of the most sought-after talents in European football following a standout 2025/26 campaign. Despite his impressive individual performance, West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League has triggered significant interest from elite clubs. The London side is reportedly demanding a fee in the region of £85 million to part ways with the midfielder.

Interest from Elite Clubs

Fernandes is currently at the centre of a major transfer battle. Manchester United have emerged as the frontrunners, with reports confirming that the club has initiated official contact with his representatives to prepare a formal bid. Alongside United, Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, and Real Madrid have all been credited with an interest in the player. While West Ham have expressed a desire to retain him for their Championship campaign, a departure is widely expected this summer as the club looks to capitalise on his soaring market value and the player seeks to continue his career at the top level.