Tottenham Hotspur have won the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes ahead of Manchester United this summer, according to journalist David Ornstein.
The Portugal international emerged as Man Utd’s priority midfield target earlier this month, and they were optimistic of securing his signature ahead of potential competitors.
However, Spurs have now won the pursuit of the 21-year-old. They have agreed to meet the Hammers’ valuation and will pay a guaranteed fee of around £85m for his services.
United were also hot on the trail of the talented midfielder, but ultimately the transfer package and the player’s wages were deemed higher than they were prepared to offer.
United need to pursue an alternative target soon
United have already reinforced their midfield with a verbal agreement to land Atalanta’s Ederson.
The club are eyeing a marquee addition alongside, and Fernandes was viewed as a priority target.
The Sporting CP graduate, described as ‘special‘ by West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo, has opted to choose a different destination.
United now need to switch focus immediately.
Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi is one of the players they have watched closely, but the teenager may not be sold in the current window.
The French outfit are determined to keep the 18-year-old next term and may only consider a pre-agreed transfer for next summer.
United have made contact with the entourage of Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha, but there is no release clause for this year.
Dortmund plan to demand £86m to sell him this summer, which is a package that United were reluctant to pay for Fernandes lately.
Hence, United may have to explore other alternatives in their quest for a marquee midfield signing.
