According to UtdDistrict, Mateus Fernandes is ‘starting to creep up’ Manchester United’s shortlist amid growing ‘uncertainty’ regarding first-choice target Elliot Anderson.

INEOS chiefs are seemingly preparing for the very real possibility that Anderson completes a move to arch-rivals Manchester City, who have been considered favourites in the race for his signature for the last few months.

Understand that Mateus Fernandes is starting to creep up #mufc's midfield shortlist

Plus some clarification on the "category B" Ederson transfer & the latest on Baleba, etc.

Full story https://t.co/obtIzrBmWR

— Dylan (@Dylyano) May 11, 2026

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Why United are braced for Anderson disappointment

As well as the Blues being at the front of the queue, Nottingham Forest retaining their Premier League status means they’ll be able to charge as high a fee as they’d like if they’re made to facilitate their midfield talisman’s departure.

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Had they been relegated, they’d have likely had to accept a cut-price fee, given Anderson would’ve been strongly pushing to make a move as soon as the window opened.

In line with that, West Ham face a similar case with Fernandes.

Mateus Fernandes scores from close range and West Ham are back in it

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— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 5, 2026

Reds set sights on Fernandes swoop

With only two fixtures remaining of the term, the Irons face an uphill battle to stay in the top flight, but it’s still possible.

Tottenham Hotspur’s 1-1 draw to Leeds United last night meant that only two points now separate 17th-placed Spurs and 18th-placed West Ham, with the former having arguably more difficult games to play on paper.

Whether they survive the drop or not, Fernandes could well opt for a transfer just a year after signing for the club.

Player Appearances (starts) Goal contributions Minutes played Anderson 36 (35) 6 3,180 Fernandes 34 (33) 6 2,846

How the two midfielders have fared in the league in 25/26

Joining United, for example, would allow him to ply his trade in the Champions League in 2026/2027, as well as play alongside compatriot and role model, Bruno Fernandes.

“The biggest one right now is Bruno [Fernandes] because of the player he already is,” the 21-year-old said of United’s skipper when asked to name his footballing role model.

“Back when I was at Sporting [CP], I looked up to him and tried to learn from him. He plays in the same league as me, he has a lot of experience with the national team, and, in the Premier League, I try to watch him a lot. Without a doubt, he stands out.”