Mateus Fernandes is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war between Manchester United and Tottenham, who hope to blow the Red Devils out of the water with their offer
Tottenham are confident of beating Manchester United in the race for Mateus Fernandes by securing a deal worth up to £80million. Fernandes, 21, is a top target for both clubs and West Ham are prepared to sell him following their relegation from the Premier League.
Arsenal and Real Madrid were previously keen on the midfielder, but their interest has cooled. Now Tottenham appear to be frontrunners, as they're willing to offer a bigger transfer fee.
The Times report that Spurs hope to gazump United, who Tottenham chiefs believe could walk away from the negotiating table if the price gets too high. Southampton will receive 15 per cent of the fee thanks to a sell-on clause inserted in the deal, which took Fernandes to West Ham for £38m last summer.
Spurs are attacking the transfer market after avoiding relegation on the final day at West Ham's expense. Roberto De Zerbi's side have already signed defensive trio Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke, and announced the arrival of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on Wednesday.
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Despite West Ham's struggles, Fernandes impressed with his consistent performances. United, however, don't want to be dragged into a bidding war, identical to their stance regarding Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson.
Forest are reportedly demanding a British record £130m package, having already rejected two offers from Manchester City. But United's reluctance to splash out risks leaving Michael Carrick with a threadbare midfield.
When Casemiro departs upon the expiry of his contract next week, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte will be United's only recognised senior central midfielders ahead of the season which will see the return of Champions League football. However, the Red Devils are close to signing Atalanta star Ederson for £35m.
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United want at least two new midfielders, and it could become three if Ugarte is sold. Speaking after the end of the season, Carrick said on the transfer window: "There's obviously work to do.
"I know it's quite obvious, there's certain players leaving, that there's a bit of work to do. It's not any more important, this one, than the last one, or it's what's ahead of us as a football club to try and make the most of."