Manchester United could be set for Joao Neves repeat over exciting midfield transfer target
Add as preferred source on Google Manchester United are exploring several options to strengthen in midfield. One potential target looks a little less likely.Speculation is already ramping up ahead of Manchester United’s transfer window. Champions League qualification is almost secure, which will expand the club’s transfer budget.United have been linked to numerous midfielders, with the position standing out as a clear priority.One of the players who has been linked is West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with talkSPORT among the outlets reporting Manchester United’s interest.But now there is tough competition for his signature that United may struggle to beat. Debate: Mateus Fernandes is the best midfield signing Man United can make this summer Is the Portuguese international being underrated? Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images PSG want Mateus FernandesParis Saint-Germain have now entered the race to sign Mateus Fernandes, according to French sources.Foot Mercato reports that PSG have made contact with Fernandes’ agents, with a view to a summer move.Manchester United have already lost out on signing a Portuguese midfielder to PSG in recent seasons.In 2024, PSG won the race to sign Joao Neves from Benfica. They then sold Manuel Ugarte to Manchester United.PSG’s Portuguese contingent could make joining the club particularly attractive.Mateus Fernandes could link up with Neves and Vitinha in midfield, and enhance his own Portugal international prospects in the process.While Manchester United will be in the Champions League next season, PSG are the 2024/25 champions, also into the 2025/26 semi-finals.PSG are simply a safer bet for Fernandes, with the situation even more cut and dry than when they beat us to signing Neves. Now the situation could repeat itself.Photo by Ian Kington / AFP via Getty ImagesBruno Fernandes factor may helpManchester United do of course have two Portugal internationals in the squad, Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.A report from The Sun claimed that Bruno Fernandes has even tipped Mateus Fernandes as a potential signing for the Red Devils.Former Sporting midfielder Mateus has even spoken about his admiration for Bruno.Normally all of that would make Manchester United firm favourites for his signature.But the emergence of PSG into the mix now makes a deal a lot more difficult, potentially driving up his price and also providing a completely different attraction.Join Our NewsletterReceive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
