Transfer news: Heavyweight battle for West Ham midfielder
Transfer news: West Ham United are relegated, but they aren’t broke. Anyone expecting a fire sale at the London Stadium is in for a reality check. The Hammers want a record fee for Mateus Fernandes, and a ferocious bidding war between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur is making that massive price tag look entirely realistic.
It is a straight shootout. According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, both clubs are launching daily verbal proposals to get this done. No subtle probing, just raw financial muscle. West Ham paid Southampton £38 million for the 21-year-old Portuguese international last summer, but they are now demanding a staggering £85 million valuation. They won’t budge, either. The Championship drop hasn’t softened their stance because they know exactly what kind of asset they hold.
Old Trafford and North London lock horns
Manchester United’s need is urgent. Manuel Ugarte suffered a terrible leg injury at the World Cup, leaving a massive crater in the centre of the pitch. With Casemiro packing his bags, manager Michael Carrick is desperate for midfield reinforcements. He has already targeted Ederson from Atalanta, but Fernandes is the long-term prize.
TalkSPORT reported that United actually had personal terms sorted with the player. Then Tottenham crashed the party.
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi wants to completely overhaul his engine room. The North London club have put together a massive financial package, one that comfortably eclipses the basic salary on offer at Old Trafford. Tottenham are ready to pay the full £85 million right now to secure the midfielder.
Fernandes himself isn’t picking sides. He is perfectly happy to join either club and is simply waiting for someone to agree a fee with West Ham.
He was the lone bright spot in a miserable relegation campaign. Look at his final game of the season on 24 May against Leeds United. Elite passing progression, five tackles won, and a crucial assist during his 90 minutes on the pitch. He has the steel and the vision required for the top level.