Manchester United’s search for a new central midfielder has so far been centred on Brighton talent Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old is regarded as the club’s top target, with Amorim pushing for his signing to strengthen the heart of United’s midfield.
However, Brighton are in no rush to part with their rising star, and a deal is proving difficult to strike.
Reports suggest the south coast side could demand around £120m, with United believed to be intent on going all-out for Baleba.
Now, talkSPORT have revealed that Ruben Amorim is an admirer of Southampton’s Mateus Fernandes, viewing him as a potential alternative to Baleba.
The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder enjoyed a breakout debut Premier League season, making 36 appearances – more minutes than any other U21 player in the division.
As well as also earning Southampton’s Player of the Year award.
West Ham have already opened talks for Fernandes.
But their opening bid worth up to £30m was rejected, with the Saints valuing him between £50m and £60m.
Similar to the fee received for Romeo Lavia when he joined Chelsea in 2023.
Fernandes was a rare bright spark in a disappointing campaign for Southampton and has already featured this season, coming off the bench in their 2-1 win over Wrexham in the Championship opener.
Signed from Sporting Lisbon for £15m last summer, the midfielder is under contract until 2029.
Thus, leaving Southampton in a strong position to negotiate.
While United’s priority remains Baleba, Fernandes’ profile, youth, and Premier League experience certainly appeals to Amorim.
United fans have endured the club have an exciting window so far, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko all in.
However, the midfield department is known to be in need of reinforcements, and Fernandes may well be the right signing, should the Red Devils miss out on Baleba.
