Bruno Fernandes recommends his own successor! Valued at €60M even if relegated—still cheaper than Cole Palmer

Manchester United are reportedly considering a summer move for Mateus Fernandes, with West Ham United’s potential relegation creating a prime opportunity to sign the 21-year-old Portuguese international. British media claim United have been tracking him since January and even made initial contact during the winter window.

Fernandes fits the modern profile of a versatile Premier League midfielder, combining strong ball control with excellent vision. United scouts have monitored him closely in matches against Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Fulham, delivering positive reports. The club is expected to continue weekly evaluations until the end of the season.

West Ham originally paid around £40 million (including add-ons) to sign him from Southampton and are now expected to demand close to £60 million—even in the event of relegation. With interest also coming from Arsenal and Manchester City, competition will be intense. Still, compared to Cole Palmer—reportedly valued at £150 million—Fernandes represents a more affordable option.

According to The Sun, United captain Bruno Fernandes has personally recommended Mateus as a long-term successor. At 32, Bruno’s future remains a topic of discussion. The two recently played together for Portugal, where Mateus earned his first senior cap.

Mateus has openly praised Bruno, calling him a role model since his youth days at Sporting CP. “We play in similar roles, and his experience in both the national team and the Premier League makes him a standout midfielder,” he said.

However, an attacking midfielder is not United’s top priority this summer. The club is expected to spend £80–100 million on a defensive midfielder to succeed Casemiro. That could limit funds for additional signings unless a favorable deal emerges—something Jim Ratcliffe might consider.

City could be United’s biggest rival in the race. Sporting director Hugo Viana, who first signed Mateus at Sporting, is a strong admirer and may target him as a successor to Bernardo Silva.

Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes still has one year left on his contract, with an optional extension. He is expected to decide his future after the World Cup. Recently, he won the Premier League Player of the Month for March, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo with six awards.

Despite individual success, Bruno admits he still trails Ronaldo in team achievements. He fondly recalled Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford in 2021, scoring twice against Newcastle: “The atmosphere that day was unbelievable—it still gives me chills.” While their partnership ended on a sour note, Bruno insists those memories remain special and hopes the Portuguese legacy at United continues.