Man Utd now in active talks to sign Mateus Fernandes amid Roy Keane praise

Manchester United are now in active talks to sign an “unbelievably excellent” Premier League star, with former midfielder Roy Keane known to be a big fan.

Man Utd continue search for new midfielder

Despite securing Ederson’s signature, with the Brazilian becoming the first signing of the Michael Carrick era, Man United remain in the hunt for a new midfielder, and they have been battling Manchester City for the signature of Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.

Ben Jacobs has indicated a deal for the England international is unlikely though, saying: “Manchester United view Elliot Anderson as a dream target, but they won’t get sucked into a bidding war, especially without player buy in first.

“Cost of deal, plus a feeling Anderson favours #MCFC mean Manchester United are advancing on other targets as of now.”

Indeed, signing the 23-year-old could break the bank, with Fabrizio Romano revealing Man City have now submitted a huge offer.

As such, United may have to move on to other targets, and journalist Chris Winterburn expects them to sign a West Ham United star, saying: “I think Manchester United will eventually end up signing Mateus Fernandes. I think he’s part of the 3 midfield players the club identified to come in.

“My understanding of the situation was they would want two players that raise the floor of the midfield, that complement Kobbie Mainoo well, and can start games where maybe Mainoo needs a rest, or he wants to change things up a bit.”

Update on Man Utd’s pursuit of Mateus Fernandes

There has now been a further update on Man United’s interest in Fernandes, with journalist Ben Jacobs revealing they are in active talks to sign the Portugal international, given that Anderson’s price tag is deemed to be too high.

Signing the West Ham midfielder would also be a costly operation though, as he is valued at £85m by Nuno’s side, despite the fact they suffered relegation from the Premier League last season.

AFC Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Balebs also remain in the frame, with the Red Devils clearly eager to bring in a proven Premier League midfielder.

Fernandes picked up three goals and four assists in 36 Premier League matches for West Ham last season, and he has received plaudits from coach Simon Rusk, who said: “He’s got an unbelievably excellent attitude towards becoming better. So he can only use this as being better.”

Keane is also known to be a strong admirer of the 21-year-old, anointing him one of the best midfelders in the league and claiming he is a better player than fellow targets Scott and Baleba, as well as the departing Casemiro.

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