Exclusive: Manchester Rivals Circle as West Ham Push January Sale of Mateus Fernandes

Mateus Fernandes, the Portuguese sensation and a rare bright spark in an otherwise disappointing season for West Ham United, has captured the attention of the city’s two heavyweights: Manchester City and Manchester United.

The Hidden Clause

While there is no general release clause in his contract, insider sources confirmed that a specific relegation release clause was inserted into his deal when he signed from Southampton.

Although the exact financial terms of the clause are being kept strictly confidential by the player's camp and the club, it is understood that the figure would represent a massive market opportunity if triggered.

With West Ham currently sitting 18th in the Premier League table, both Manchester clubs are positioned to exploit this "opportunity window" should the Hammers fail to avoid the drop.

Sources indicate that the presence of the relegation clause has fundamentally altered West Ham’s stance, with the club now actively encouraging interest from one of the Premier League’s elite ahead of the January window. 

The Hammers are acutely aware that if relegation were to be confirmed and the clause triggered, Fernandes would become available for a significantly reduced fee, weakening their negotiating position. As a result, West Ham view a January sale to a top-flight heavyweight as the most effective way to protect the asset’s value and maximise any potential return.

United’s Midfield Evolution

At Old Trafford, the recruitment priority is shifting under the new technical direction. 

While Casemiro’s future continues to be a topic of discussion due to interest from the Saudi Pro League, United are not looking for a traditional defensive swap. 

Instead, they are prioritising a technical, high-energy partner for Kobbie Mainoo. Fernandes, with his playmaking vision and relentless energy, is viewed as the ideal candidate for this tactical evolution.

Guardiola’s Tactical Vision

Manchester City have also been monitoring the situation with intent. 

Pep Guardiola is reportedly impressed with the 21-year-old’s technical security and ability to operate under pressure. City’s strategy of securing high-potential talent during periods of "club instability" is well documented, and Fernandes fits the "City-style" technical profile flawlessly.

Guardiola sees Fernandes as a natural successor to Matheus Nunes, with the pair capable of sharing a split role in City’s evolving system. While Fernandes is naturally an attacking midfielder, Pep is impressed by his versatility and believes he has the qualities to perform in several positions, including at full-back. 

City have also been linked with a move for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, but any deal for the England international would command a significantly higher fee than Fernandes, who has spent just six months in London following his move from Southampton.

With the transfer deadline fast approaching and West Ham’s Premier League survival in the balance, the two Manchester giants are ready to pounce. The existence of the relegation trigger has changed the dynamic of the race, making Fernandes one of the most monitored players of the winter window.