AdminManchester United could once again find themselves watching Arsenal win the race for a midfielder admired by Bruno Fernandes, with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes emerging as a summer target for both clubs.
The United captain previously admitted he was “really sad” when Declan Rice chose Arsenal over a move to Old Trafford in 2023.
Rice completed a £105million switch from West Ham after Mikel Arteta convinced him that north London was the right destination, despite interest from several top clubs.
United have struggled to find the right balance in midfield since then and are expected to strengthen heavily in that department this summer.
Mateus Fernandes has now been linked with a move to Old Trafford, with reports suggesting Bruno is a huge admirer of his fellow Portuguese international.
The 21-year-old has impressed despite West Ham’s difficult campaign and could become available for a reduced fee should the Hammers suffer relegation. Arsenal, however, are also said to be monitoring the situation closely.
Arteta is believed to value Fernandes’ versatility, with the midfielder capable of operating in deeper areas while also contributing further forward, drawing comparisons with Rice.
Bruno previously said of Rice: “I admire him a lot first of all as a person, because I knew him from the Algarve when we were training together.
“I knew him already from West Ham and we knew the qualities that he had. I’ve always said that Rice was a player to play for Manchester United and I was really sad when he chose to go to Arsenal.
“I didn’t know if there was the opportunity or the chance for him to come to Manchester United but I always thought that he would be a perfect fit for our club.
“Not just for the player he is but the person he is, the professional he is. He showed me that. And for his personality.”
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