The report says United have identified Fernandes as a realistic target after West Ham’s relegation, but no formal offer has been made and there has been no official contact between the clubs.
West Ham reportedly have no immediate need to sell and could retain Fernandes for their promotion campaign under Nuno Espirito Santo. That stance gives the club leverage, particularly after the midfielder arrived only last summer for an initial £38m.
Fernandes’ market value is supported by his workload last season. He made 42 appearances in all competitions, including 36 in the Premier League, and produced five goals and five assists. The report says United decision-makers believe he was among the division’s best young players and see a possible pathway towards the level reached by Declan Rice.
United are also reportedly progressing an agreed deal for Ederson. The proposed package is worth an initial £34m, with a further £3.8m in potential add-ons.
Pursuing both midfielders would indicate a broader structural rebuild rather than a single addition. Ederson would provide experience at 26, while Fernandes represents a younger, higher-cost investment with Premier League exposure.
The £80m valuation is the key market signal. United would need to decide whether Fernandes’ 42-game season and attacking contribution justify paying a premium for potential, especially with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested.
West Ham’s relegation increases uncertainty around Fernandes but does not automatically force a sale. Keeping a central midfielder who contributed five goals and five assists could strengthen their promotion push.
The immediate test is whether United turn their background work into a formal approach. Until then, Fernandes remains a reported target rather than an active transfer.
Ederson’s deal could shape the decision. If United complete that move, they may still pursue Fernandes as a second midfield solution-or reassess their spending depending on the final structure of the squad.