Manchester United’s preparations for the upcoming summer transfer window are accelerating, with reports from Sports Boom suggesting that Mateus Fernandes has emerged as a key midfield target as Michael Carrick looks to revamp his squad.

The development is particularly noteworthy as it casts uncertainty over the future of Manuel Ugarte. United had signed the Uruguayan midfielder from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for £42.5 million, but according to Sports Boom, the club is now “ready to cut their losses” after what has been described as a tough stint at Old Trafford.

Ugarte was brought in for his aggression, ball recovery skills, and high intensity. However, the report notes that he has “failed to win over the Old Trafford faithful,” mirroring the broader sentiment that United lack technical control and composure in midfield.

With Carrick’s team back in the UEFA Champions League, their recruitment priorities have shifted. United not only need first-team quality players but also enough depth to handle the challenges of European competition, domestic cups, and the Premier League’s demanding schedule.

As a result, strengthening the midfield is expected to be a central part of United’s summer transfer plans.

Sports Boom reports that West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes is now “firmly on the radar,” with the 21-year-old Portuguese international potentially available for around £50 million.

That price tag could prove significant. Elliot Anderson remains a player United admire, though Nottingham Forest are reportedly seeking “£100 million plus” for him. Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni has also been linked, but any move for him would likely cost between £70 million and £80 million.

In comparison, Fernandes seems to be a more realistic target. Young, technically gifted, and mobile, he fits the profile Carrick is expected to prioritise as he builds a midfield capable of playing with more pace and variety.

One intriguing detail from the report is that club captain Bruno Fernandes is said to be “a huge admirer of his fellow countryman” and considers him “the ideal addition” to inject energy and dynamism into Carrick’s midfield setup.

While that doesn’t necessarily mean a deal is imminent, internal support from senior players can carry weight. Bruno Fernandes knows the pressures of performing at Old Trafford and understands the standards required to thrive in United’s midfield.

If he believes Mateus Fernandes has the mentality and ability to succeed, that endorsement will only strengthen the case for his signing within the club.

There’s also an important wider context. Sports Boom notes that Fernandes is “determined to remain in the top flight” following West Ham’s surprise relegation to the Championship. A clause in his contract could also help expedite a potential transfer.

United have also been keeping tabs on Carlos Baleba, Ederson, and Adam Wharton, indicating that the club’s recruitment team is assessing multiple midfield options rather than focusing on a single target.

Still, if Ugarte departs and Fernandes becomes available for around £50 million, this could be an opportunity worth pursuing. Carrick needs energy, quality, and tactical sharpness in midfield — attributes Fernandes appears to possess.

From a Manchester United standpoint, this is precisely the kind of signing that excites supporters. Carrick, a former midfield maestro himself, knows what it takes to dominate that area of the pitch. If he is pushing for Fernandes, it suggests he sees more than just potential in the young Portuguese star.

United have long sought a more refined and dynamic midfield profile. Ugarte brought intensity and pedigree, but the partnership hasn’t fully clicked. If Carrick decides to act decisively, it should be seen as a positive step rather than a concern.

Fernandes embodies the characteristics of a modern United signing — youthful, ambitious, technically assured, and already recognised at the international level with Portugal. Add to that Bruno Fernandes’ endorsement, and it becomes a move that makes sense both on and off the field.

While £50 million is a substantial investment, it could prove to be smart business compared to the hefty valuations of Elliot Anderson and Tchouaméni. With Champions League football secured, Carrick needs players who can press, pass, and perform under pressure.

If West Ham’s relegation creates an opening, United would be wise to act quickly. Mateus Fernandes could turn out to be the signing that marks the true beginning of Carrick’s midfield rebuild at Old Trafford.