Real Madrid News
Real Madrid set to miss out on Mourinho’s top midfield choice as Man United close in on £80 million transfer
Real Madrid are set to miss out on one of Jose Mourinho’s preferred transfer targets this summer, with fresh reports indicating that Manchester United have moved into a commanding position in the race for Mateus Fernandes.
According to The Times, the West Ham United midfielder is increasingly likely to head to Old Trafford despite attracting serious interest from several top European clubs, including Real Madrid and Arsenal.
The development represents a potential setback for Mourinho, who has identified the Portuguese international as an ideal addition to his midfield plans.
However, Madrid’s cautious approach in the market could now allow Manchester United to take advantage and complete one of the biggest deals of the summer.
Mourinho wanted Fernandes as part of midfield rebuild
Although Real Madrid have already been active in the transfer market, signing Bernardo Silva, strengthening the midfield remains an area of focus.
The club continue to adapt to life after Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, and Mourinho is believed to be searching for players capable of bringing a different dimension to the squad.
Fernandes reportedly fits that profile perfectly.
The Portuguese midfielder has earned a reputation as a dynamic presence capable of contributing in both defensive and attacking phases.
His ability to carry the ball forward, cover large areas of the pitch and provide physical intensity has made him one of the most sought-after midfielders in England.
According to the report, Mourinho has personally highlighted Fernandes as a player who could improve Real Madrid’s options in the centre of the park.
Manchester United move ahead
Despite Real Madrid’s admiration for the player, Manchester United appear to have acted more aggressively.
The report states that the Premier League giants are currently leading the race because they are willing to meet West Ham’s valuation, which could reportedly reach £80 million.
Simply put, that financial commitment has given United a significant advantage over their rivals.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are said to be taking a more measured approach, as the Spanish giants want to prioritise other areas of their squad and are reluctant to rush into a deal at a price they may consider excessive.
As a result, United have gained valuable ground in negotiations and now look increasingly likely to secure the midfielder’s signature.
In what will come as a pleasing development for fans, Fabrizio Romano reports that Real Madrid forward Rodrygo could make a comeback from his injury earlier than expected.
The 25-year-old Brazilian international has been out of action since March after suffering an ACL injury during a La Liga game against Getafe.
Due to the complete rupture of the ACL, coupled with associated meniscus damage, it was suggested that the attacker was staring at a lengthy time out on the sidelines and might not return until 2027.
In fact, the forward’s father, Eric Goes, recently stated in an interview that the Real Madrid ace could be back in February next year, just before the business end of the campaign.
Rodrygo could be back in December
However, as per the update from Romano, Rodrygo’s comeback could happen well before that expected date.
Indeed, if things continue to progress at the current rate, the 25-year-old attacker might return to action in December or by January 2027 at the latest.
This will come as a welcome boost for Jose Mourinho & co., considering that Rodrygo is a valuable player for the team.
Even though he had endured a tough spell prior to his form, the Brazilian’s versatility, work rate off the ball, and eye for a goal make him an asset.
Rodrygo eager to be back at his best
The update from Romano further states that Rodrygo feels very grateful to Real Madrid for all the help and support they have given him during this difficult phase of his career.
As such, the Brazilian international has made it a mission to return to action in the best shape possible and make an impact from the get-go.
The attacker has only recently begun working on the pitch with the ball indicating the significant progress he has made on the road to recovery.
And, if there are no setbacks, Real Madrid could recover one of their ace attackers before the end of the current year.
So far in his career, Rodrygo has made 297 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring 71 goals. He has a contract with the club until 2028.
