Arsenal to beat Man Utd to signing Portuguese star?

Arsenal are reportedly planning to beat Manchester United in the pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes this summer.

The Portuguese signed for the Hammers from Southampton last summer, and he has been a key player in the heart of the midfield for them.

Despite this, the east London outfit are anticipating his potential departure regardless of their league status at the end of the season.

West Ham purchased the 21-year-old from the Saints for 40 million pounds and will demand at least 50 million pounds if they are relegated.

In case they avoid relegation from the top-flight, the Hammers are expected to hold out for a premium fee of 80 million pounds for the player.

Arsenal have already held initial contact with the Sporting CP graduate via his representative and remain optimistic of winning the transfer race.

Fernandes has yet to make a decision regarding his future but he is open to joining an elite European club to play Champions League football.