Man United 'identify' transfer target after Fernandes recommendation

The 21-year-old has impressed in a struggling Hammers side, who remain at risk of relegation from the Premier League. Should they drop into the Championship, keeping hold of the Portuguese talent will prove extremely difficult and United are said to have placed him on their radar.

The Sun report that Mateus is not regarded as a priority target, but United may well recruit multiple midfielders this summer. With Casemiro's departure confirmed and Manuel Ugarte expected to leave Old Trafford, reinforcements in that department are required.

Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali feature amongst their principal targets. But it's added that Bruno will recommend Mateus as a potential target.

Mateus received his maiden Portugal call-up during the March international window and, with his reputation continuing to grow, United are weighing him up as a potential signing.

Bruno is under contract until 2027 and remains the team's talisman, but those in Manchester recognise that they can't depend on the player forever.

There was notable noise surrounding a possible departure back in the summer, with Saudi sides interested, but the playmaker chose to remain at Old Trafford.

Mateus only moved to the London Stadium back in the summer, joining from relegated Southampton for a price of £40 million. In his 30 appearances in all competitions, he has scored three times, with his performances catching the eye of several clubs.

United could face competition from rivals Manchester City, who could have a potential advantage. Their new sporting director Hugo Viana originally brought Mateus to Sporting Lisbon and oversaw his first professional contract. Bernardo Silva is poised to leave City when his deal expires this summer, and the club could consider a move themselves as a potential replacement.

Last summer United's hierarchy made a concerted effort to target established Premier League performers - resulting in the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. A transfer for Mateus would align with that recruitment strategy.

"He passes like a Premier League player. He is quick like a Premier League player. He conducts himself so well in midfield."