Real Madrid Back Away as Manchester United Lead Race for £80m-Rated Midfielder Mateus Fernandes

Real Madrid Back Away as Manchester United Lead Race for £80m-Rated Midfielder Mateus Fernandes

Real Madrid have reportedly pulled out of the race to sign West Ham United’s rising star Mateus Fernandes. The Spanish giants have backed down under the impression that Manchester United are now the clear favorites to secure the 21-year-old midfielder's signature. Los Blancos decided against launching an official bid as negotiations between the Red Devils and the player's camp are already understood to be at an advanced and crucial stage. Manchester United's path to Fernandes became even clearer after Arsenal also cooled their interest in the player. The Portuguese midfielder has now emerged as a top priority for United's midfield reinforcement plans. While West Ham have slapped a hefty £80 million price tag on their star asset—a massive jump from the £38 million they paid Southampton last year—United are hopeful of negotiating a lower fee. This leverage comes as The Hammers face a tough financial reality following their recent relegation to the Championship and ongoing…