Manchester United’s plans to strengthen their midfield this summer could face a serious obstacle, with Arsenal now emerging as strong contenders for one of their key transfer targets.

The Red Devils are actively searching for reinforcements in the middle of the pitch ahead of the new season. While Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson remains one of the club’s top priorities, United are also monitoring several other young talents across the Premier League, reports alldaysport.net

One of the names attracting major attention is West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. The 21-year-old has impressed with his performances since arriving in England and is now viewed as one of the most promising young midfielders in the league.

Reports suggest Manchester United recently made initial contact regarding a potential move, and the player is believed to be open to joining the club. The opportunity to play Champions League football and work alongside Portuguese star Bruno Fernandes is said to be highly appealing to him.

However, Arsenal are now ready to challenge United for the midfielder’s signature. Mikel Arteta reportedly wants to add more creativity and technical quality to his midfield options after weaknesses were exposed during key matches last season.

The Arsenal manager is looking to build a stronger partnership around Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi, and Fernandes is considered an ideal fit for the system Arteta wants to create at the Emirates.

West Ham are expected to demand around £80 million for the Portuguese midfielder, a fee that would represent a huge profit after signing him from Southampton last year. Southampton are also set to benefit from a future sell-on clause included in the original deal.

If Arsenal decide to push forward aggressively, Manchester United could find themselves losing another major transfer battle to one of their direct Premier League rivals./ALLDAYSPORT/