Jorge Mendes Working to Bring Mateus Fernandes to Mourinho, Say Spanish Reports

Following extensive discussions with Real Madrid's board, new manager José Mourinho has pinpointed midfield reinforcement as a top priority, alongside the already secured defensive additions of Konaté and Dumfries. According to AS, among the various names linked to the club, the Portuguese coach holds a particular fondness for Mateus Fernandes, the 21-year-old West Ham midfielder.

The London club is currently navigating a deep institutional crisis, exacerbated by the recent departure of its chairman due to controversial issues and their relegation to the Championship. This climate of administrative and sporting instability is prompting many players to seek new destinations to avoid England's second tier.

Mateus Fernandes was one of the standout performers in the Premier League last season, making his absence from Roberto Martínez's World Cup squad all the more surprising. Nevertheless, his impressive displays did not go unnoticed, with Manchester United and Chelsea among the first to express interest in acquiring his services.

According to the English press, the initial valuation for the player is around 90 million euros. However, it's well-known that transfers between English clubs tend to inflate prices, which are typically lower when the deal involves teams from other European leagues.

Jorge Mendes, who represents both Mourinho and Mateus, is already working on an operation that is anticipated to be complex but is considered a top priority by the manager. There is complete confidence in the Portuguese midfielder's growth potential and quality.

Mourinho seeks players who combine commitment with quality, characteristics he believes the former Sporting player amply demonstrated last season. The operation is underway, transforming what was once a discreet target into one of Real Madrid's primary market objectives. Morten Hjulmand is considered an alternative and remains on the radar, the same source confirms.