The Peoples Person

Manchester United have wasted little time rueing being beaten to the punch for Mateus Fernandes by Tottenham Hotspur after accelerating a deal to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea. But the Red Devils now fear a similar fate in their pursuit of Crysencio Summerville, according to a new report.

Wing Wizard

Having been priced out of moves for their first-choice options like Morgan Rogers and Yan Diomande, the Red Devils have made Summerville their “No.1 target” on the left wing this summer.

The “incredible” 24-year-old trickster, who is capable of playing on both flanks, enjoyed a positive campaign for West Ham last season, despite the Hammers being relegated on the final day. He returned seven goals and five assists in all competitions.

This form has continued for the Netherlands, where the Rotterdam native scored twice and set up two more in four games for his country at the World Cup. His goal in their opening game against Japan was an excellent strike, cutting in from the right on his weaker foot.

This versatility will be appealing to Manchester United’s hierarchy, as they look to create a fluid frontline, with the 6’5″ Benjamin Sesko as the focal point. Both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha are capable of playing out wide or through the middle, making a natural winger like Summerville an ideal addition to mirror Amad on the right.

West Ham are understood to be asking for £50 million to let the former Leeds United star leave Elland Road this summer. He previously won the Championship Player of the Year while at Elland Road.

Spurs eye another hijack

Sky Sports reveals Manchester United, led by sporting director Jason Wilcox, have held “initial, exploratory talks with West Ham” over a deal for Summerville. With the Netherlands having been knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco last week, his future is now expected to be “clarified in the coming weeks”.

However, the report states United would “ideally want to sign him using funds from the sale of Marcus Rashford”. With FC Barcelona having opted against triggering the £26 million buy-option to sign the 28-year-old England international permanently, he is set to return to Old Trafford.

But Rashford is currently on duty for the Three Lions at the World Cup, who look primed to go deep into the competition with a quarter-final clash against Norway on Saturday evening. Sky Sports claims this could delay Rashford’s arrival in M16 until “well into August,” potentially delaying a pursuit of Summerville.

The Red Devils are not alone in their admiration of the flying Dutchman, with Chelsea, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain having all expressed interest in the relegated star. However, it is Tottenham who United fear most after the Lilywhites also entered the race.

Old Trafford chiefs are said to be “very aware they could lose out to Spurs on another priority signing if they do not move quickly”. At Roberto De Zerbi’s request, the North London club hijacked United’s deal for Fernandes, despite the 21-year-old Portuguese having greenlit a switch to Manchester.

Final Thoughts

The aggression Tottenham have demonstrated in the market this summer is understood to have taken their rivals, including the Red Devils, by surprise. But having almost suffered the same fate as West Ham, the willingness to spend big to avoid a repeat of last season is understandable.

Manchester United will just be hoping it is not a case of disappointing déjà vu for another one of their leading targets, having already faced major setbacks in pursuits of Elliot Anderson and Aurelien Tchouameni alongside Fernandes.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

Manchester United have wasted little time rueing being beaten to the punch for Mateus Fernandes by Tottenham Hotspur after accelerating a deal to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea. But the Red Devils now fear a similar fate in their pursuit of Crysencio Summerville, according to a new report.

Wing Wizard

Having been priced out of moves for their first-choice options like Morgan Rogers and Yan Diomande, the Red Devils have made Summerville their “No.1 target” on the left wing this summer.

The “incredible” 24-year-old trickster, who is capable of playing on both flanks, enjoyed a positive campaign for West Ham last season, despite the Hammers being relegated on the final day. He returned seven goals and five assists in all competitions.

This form has continued for the Netherlands, where the Rotterdam native scored twice and set up two more in four games for his country at the World Cup. His goal in their opening game against Japan was an excellent strike, cutting in from the right on his weaker foot.

This versatility will be appealing to Manchester United’s hierarchy, as they look to create a fluid frontline, with the 6’5″ Benjamin Sesko as the focal point. Both Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha are capable of playing out wide or through the middle, making a natural winger like Summerville an ideal addition to mirror Amad on the right.

West Ham are understood to be asking for £50 million to let the former Leeds United star leave Elland Road this summer. He previously won the Championship Player of the Year while at Elland Road.

Spurs eye another hijack

Sky Sports reveals Manchester United, led by sporting director Jason Wilcox, have held “initial, exploratory talks with West Ham” over a deal for Summerville. With the Netherlands having been knocked out of the World Cup by Morocco last week, his future is now expected to be “clarified in the coming weeks”.

However, the report states United would “ideally want to sign him using funds from the sale of Marcus Rashford”. With FC Barcelona having opted against triggering the £26 million buy-option to sign the 28-year-old England international permanently, he is set to return to Old Trafford.

But Rashford is currently on duty for the Three Lions at the World Cup, who look primed to go deep into the competition with a quarter-final clash against Norway on Saturday evening. Sky Sports claims this could delay Rashford’s arrival in M16 until “well into August,” potentially delaying a pursuit of Summerville.

The Red Devils are not alone in their admiration of the flying Dutchman, with Chelsea, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain having all expressed interest in the relegated star. However, it is Tottenham who United fear most after the Lilywhites also entered the race.

Old Trafford chiefs are said to be “very aware they could lose out to Spurs on another priority signing if they do not move quickly”. At Roberto De Zerbi’s request, the North London club hijacked United’s deal for Fernandes, despite the 21-year-old Portuguese having greenlit a switch to Manchester.

Final Thoughts

The aggression Tottenham have demonstrated in the market this summer is understood to have taken their rivals, including the Red Devils, by surprise. But having almost suffered the same fate as West Ham, the willingness to spend big to avoid a repeat of last season is understandable.

Manchester United will just be hoping it is not a case of disappointing déjà vu for another one of their leading targets, having already faced major setbacks in pursuits of Elliot Anderson and Aurelien Tchouameni alongside Fernandes.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

Manchester United face losing another target to Tottenham Hotspur as the North London club plans a move to sign Rafael Leao, according to a new report.

San Siro Sayonara

Despite Leao’s contract at the San Siro containing a release clause worth €175 million, AC Milan are open to the 27-year-old forward leaving this summer for a fee in the region of €50-60m (£43-50m).

There were reports of issues with behaviour and professionalism last season, with the Portugal international, currently on duty at the World Cup, understood to have clashed with the former manager, Massimiliano Allegri. And while the Italian tactician has departed to join rivals Napoli, his replacement – Ruben Amorim – remains supportive of Milan’s decision to sell Leao.

Rafael Leao Stats: 2025/26 Season

CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Serie A29935-1,861' Italy Cup21---107' Supercoppa Italiana------ Total311035-1,968'

TEAMtalk reveals Amorim, who was sacked by United in January, has “sanctioned the player’s departure as he begins reshaping the Rossoneri squad ahead of the new campaign.”

In many ways, Leao and Marcus Rashford are comparable players, with similar strengths and weaknesses, who operate best in the same position. On their day, either is capable of destroying the opposition defence, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic hailing Leao as “magical”.

However, in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, a left winger who likes to cut inside on his stronger foot is a poor fit, particularly if they do not work hard out of possession. As he proved with Rashford, the former Sporting CP manager has no time for passengers, regardless of their talents.

United have been strongly linked with a move for a new left-sided attacker this summer, as INEOS look, ironically, to replace Rashford. The England international failed to seal a permanent move to Barcelona after the Catalan club opted to sign Anthony Gordon over him.

Leao considers a move to the Premier League a “dream”, citing United specifically as a club he follows. However, the Red Devils are yet to match this interest, as are Arsenal and Manchester City, despite the player’s representatives having made contact with each club last month.

Spurs enter the race

This reluctance to advance a deal has allowed Tottenham Hotspur to storm into the race, with Roberto De Zerbi keen to add a left winger to his forward line. Despite around £185 million already being spent on Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes – beating out Manchester United in the process – the Lilywhites are showing no signs of slowing down.

“Spurs remain in the market for a left-sided attacker and, while talks have continued over Manchester City’s Savinho, TEAMtalk understands Leao has emerged as another high-profile option under serious consideration,” the report states.

“The Portuguese international’s profile, experience and ability to change games have made him an attractive candidate as De Zerbi looks to add proven quality to his frontline. TEAMtalk understands Tottenham’s hierarchy are showing a real commitment to De Zerbi and the project he is building.”

Alongside Arsenal and FC Barcelona, United are understood to be “continuing to monitor developments” in Milan, suggesting a pursuit may yet be launched. If Leao is available at an even cheaper price late in the window, or perhaps a loan with an option to buy, INEOS may see him as a market opportunity worth taking the risk for.

However, Spurs may strike first, removing another target from United’s wish list. Leao is said to be “attracted by the prospect of a move to the Premier League and would seriously consider joining Spurs should a deal become possible.”

Featured images Marco Luzzani via Getty Images

Manchester United fans were left disappointed to see their side lose out to Tottenham Hotspur in the race for Mateus Fernandes.

For weeks now, the message emanating from INEOS’ headquarters has been that the Red Devils remain in pole position despite West Ham’s exorbitant valuation, and they remain confident of landing their man.

Spurs’ entry did flip the script, but given the Portugal international’s admiration for Bruno Fernandes, there seemed little to worry about.

That was until the North London side decided to gazump the 20-time English league champions with a massive wage offer while also meeting the Hammers’ asking price.

Mateus Fernandes chooses Spurs

INEOS were in no mood to overpay and thus, ended up losing yet another midfield target, following previous disappointments with Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali.

Spurs paying £85 million for a midfielder who has suffered back-to-back relegations while also offering him a massive wage rise ultimately forced the 21-year-old to change his stance.

Interestingly, TEAMtalk have now reported that it was never about the money for Mateus Fernandes, who was blown away by Roberto De Zerbi‘s vision for Spurs.

The former Southampton ace was also keen to remain in London, which makes a bit of sense.

His reasoning revealed

“Mateus Fernandes informed Manchester United he will be joining Tottenham Hotspur, with the midfielder making it clear that his decision was about far more than money, TEAMtalk understands.

“However, sources with direct knowledge of the negotiations have confirmed to TEAMtalk that Fernandes ultimately chose Tottenham because of his belief in Roberto De Zerbi’s vision for the club.

“While Spurs’ financial package is understood to be superior to that offered by Man Utd, Fernandes’ camp have insisted the move was “not simply a case of joining the highest bidder. Instead, the midfielder was won over by De Zerbi’s plans, the direction of the project in north London and the opportunity to remain in the capital.”

Whatever damage control narrative Fernandes’ agent provides, it is clear that finances dictated the ultimate decision. And United fans should not begrudge the West Ham ace for wanting to secure his future.

Mateus Fernandes PR will not change the reality

Should a player feel that Spurs are the ideal club for him, instead of Manchester United, it shows more about him rather than United’s failed attempt.

Fans must remember that the North London club had offered a slightly better package to Brentford last year in order to hijack Bryan Mbeumo‘s move to Manchester. The Cameroonian stood firm, and his dream move materialised. Clearly, Mateus Fernandes did not.

Not overpaying also sends a clear message to clubs, who have been used to the idea of fleecing United. Now is not the time to cry over spilled milk, with INEOS focusing on Alex Scott as an alternative.

Feature image Clive Rose via Getty Images

Manchester United refused to match Tottenham Hotspur’s bid for Mateus Fernandes despite tabling their own big-money bid for the 21-year-old midfielder, according to an inside source.

Spurs’ hijack worked

While a host of top clubs across Europe expressed interest in Fernandes this summer, including Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, the Red Devils emerged as frontrunners for the West Ham starlet. Having exited the race for Elliot Anderson after Nottingham Forest demanded a record-breaking fee, United then focused on Fernandes as their primary target to rebuild the midfield.

A £39 million deal was struck at the beginning of the month for Atalanta dynamo Ederson, but this is understood to have been a market opportunity to land a versatile operator with a wealth of experience.

However, the Hammers’ refusal to budge on their £85 million valuation, despite having been relegated, led to frustration in M16, even though the youngster considers Bruno Fernandes his idol. This then turned to dismay once Tottenham stormed into the race, demonstrating a willingness to outbid the Mancunian club.

Earlier this evening, Spurs struck an £85 million agreement with their East London rivals, tabling a proposal to the player and his club which United were unwilling to match.

INEOS put their money where their mouth is

This is not to say INEOS simply rolled over and let Tottenham have a free run at Fernandes, with Sully – an excellent source at Old Trafford – revealing United made their own offer totalling £85 million.

However, crucially, it was worth £70 million up front with an additional £15m in add-ons. A salary worth £170,000 a week was extended to Fernandes – a huge sum for a player who has suffered successive relegations.

Tweet: “#MUFC offered #WHU a package of £85M for Fernandes which was £70M guaranteed with around £15M in add-ons. They also offered a wage of close to £170K a week. This morning, United were offered the chance to match Spurs’ bid, which was £85M all up front, and they refused to do so.”

Final Thoughts

While there is considerable consternation amongst the fanbase, the decision to avoid spending a guaranteed £85 million on a Championship midfielder – even if his skillset is far beyond – is a difficult one to argue with.

In many ways, Manchester United’s co-owners are suffering from mistakes of the past, where the club developed a reputation for overpaying out of desperation as much as dominance. Tottenham Hotspur, having almost faced relegation themselves, qualify for the latter in their current state, which made them a difficult rival to compete with.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

Manchester United have lost out in a red-hot race with Tottenham Hotspur to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano.

Primary Target

The Red Devils had identified Fernandes, 21, as a primary target in their midfield rebuild this summer, after being priced out of a move for Elliot Anderson. While INEOS were keen for the 23-year-old England international to replace Casemiro at Old Trafford, Nottingham Forest’s exorbitant demands allowed Manchester City to pull ahead and strike a £116 million deal.

However, the analytics team at Old Trafford considered Fernandes a superb alternative, with the skillset to thrive across a variety of roles in midfield – a view mirrored by a former United coach.

Talks were held with the one-cap Portugal international’s camp, led by super agent Jorge Mendes. These discussions were understood to be positive, with the player communicating a desire to complete the switch to M16.

However, West Ham’s valuation of £85m was far in excess of United’s – believed to be around the £60m mark – leading to weeks of protracted negotiations. This, in turn, allowed Tottenham Hotspur to launch a hijack for the Sporting CP academy graduate, with the North London club expressing a willingness to meet the Hammers’ price tag.

Another One Bites The Dust

David Ornstein now reveals Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a deal with West Ham, despite the inter-city rivalry having largely prevented business between the two London teams before.

Tweet: “EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham Hotspur win race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Spurs submitted highest proposal (believed to be ~£85m guaranteed) & 21yo #WHUFC midfielder opted to join #THFC. Numbers beyond where #MUFC willing to go @TheAthleticFC.”

The Athletic reporter states Spurs have “won the race” after tabling a guaranteed fee of £85 million and an attractive salary package, which both the player and his club have accepted.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed the news with his trademark ‘Here we go!’ seal of approval. The deal constitutes a club record for the Lilywhites.

Manchester United are said to have considered Tottenham’s proposal “higher than they were willing to pay, and they will now shift their focus to other targets,” Ornstein concludes.

However, the pool of options available to the Red Devils after missing out on both Anderson and Fernandes is growing smaller by the day. Bournemouth maestro Alex Scott is understood to be an alternative that is being explored, though the Cherries have been adamant the 22-year-old is not for sale.

Carlos Baleba (Brighton & Hove Albion) and Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) are two other names on the list, though neither offers the same complete profile as Anderson or Fernandes. United have also been outgunned for Sandro Tonali (Newcastle), who looks set to join Spurs as well – which leaves just one option with the skillset required to fix Carrick’s stalling engine room.

Featured image Clive Rose via Getty Images

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are continuing to battle for Mateus Fernandes’ signature, though a clear frontrunner is now emerging, according to a new report.

Theatre of Dreams

The Red Devils have zeroed in on Fernandes as a priority this summer after being priced out of a move for Nottingham Forest maestro Elliot Anderson, who was considered the primary target to replace Casemiro. The fact that Manchester City were forced to stump up a club-record £116 million fee for the 23-year-old England international gives credence to INEOS’ decision to withdraw from the race and focus on alternatives.

There was hope that West Ham’s relegation would force the East London club into accepting a cut-price deal for Fernandes. However, a cash injection from the new majority owner, Daniel Křetínský, has eased the financial pressures, and the growing number of suitors for the 21-year-old Portuguese starlet has further strengthened their negotiating position.

Former United coach, Neil Harris, who spent nearly 20 years at Old Trafford, believes Fernandes may have an even higher ceiling than Anderson, comparing the youngster to the best midfielder in Europe.

“I think he’s got levels that maybe Anderson…[hasn’t] got to go. When I look at him, I see Vitinha. I see him being a conductor in games with his tempo and things like that,” Harris states.

Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Appearances36 Minutes per game84 Touches58.9 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes37.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.9 Goals and assists 7

Source: Sofascore

While Manchester United have been leading the race for the past month, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City have all expressed interest as well. Further afield, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have both made advances to the Olhão native’s representatives, led by super agent Jorge Mendes.

Fernandes is understood to consider Old Trafford a ‘dream move’, citing his namesake, Bruno, as a childhood idol after coming through Sporting CP’s academy, before a switch to Southampton in 2023. When the Saints faced relegation last year, West Ham struck a £42 million deal to bring him to the London Stadium.

As a result, the Hammers are demanding a fee in excess of £80 million to part ways with their prized asset. United value him closer to the £60 million mark, leading to protracted negotiations between both clubs and the player’s camp.

This has allowed Tottenham Hotspur to storm into the race, demonstrating a willingness to match West Ham’s demands in an effort to throw their full weight behind new manager, Roberto De Zerbi. A separate big-money pursuit of Sandro Tonali is also underway, with Newcastle United having rejected Spurs’ opening offer of £80 million.

United remain the frontrunners

Despite many reports suggesting Tottenham had pulled ahead of Manchester United, Football Transfers reveals well-placed sources indicate the Mancunian club remain “significantly further ahead in negotiations” with West Ham.

Spurs are said to be focusing on Tonali as their priority, which has afforded the Red Devils the “perfect opportunity to strike.” Formal talks are underway to try and agree a deal.

Throughout this long-winded process, there has been a belief in M16 based on two factors: firstly, Fernandes favours a move to United over his other suitors, particularly a club outside the Champions League; and secondly, the rampant interest in the youngster is being driven primarily by Mendes to extract the best deal for West Ham and his client.

With United said to retain a firm grasp on proceedings, this confidence looks increasingly well-placed. It has even been reported that one of the reasons Real Madrid exited the race was the belief that Fernandes was heading to Old Trafford.

Final Thoughts

Increasingly, this saga feels almost like a game of brinkmanship between the different parties over who will blink first. Manchester United are determined not to overpay for their targets, no matter how highly rated they are by the club’s recruitment team. Conversely, West Ham want maximum value for their most in-demand talent, while his agent wants to line both his and the player’s pockets.

If Tottenham Hotspur are willing to pay the piper, United’s resolute stance will quickly fall apart. But with Spurs advancing a monster deal for Tonali, a player who operates similarly to Fernandes, the idea that they will spend the best part of £200 million on the pair makes little sense.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

Manchester United remain intent on selling Marcus Rashford this summer despite FC Barcelona’s refusal to make his loan spell in Catalonia permanent.

Barcelona play hardball

Rashford, 28, spent last season on loan with the Blaugrana, returning 14 goals and 14 assists in all competitions as he helped his adopted club defend their La Liga title.

German manager Hansi Flick was keen for the England international to remain at the Camp Nou, having been impressed by his attitude and commitment in a squad-based role. With Lamine Yamal and Raphinha the undisputed starters on either flank, Rashford often shone as a versatile option from the bench or as a deputy if either was injured.

Marcus Rashford Stats: 2025/26 Season

CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga3218893-1,762' UEFA Champions League11554--579' Copa del Rey4311--249' Supercopa20----32' Total492614143-2,622'

Source: Transfermarkt.

However, Barcelona refused to trigger the £26 million buy option in the deal with United, leading to months of protracted negotiations between the two clubs. With no agreement in place as the June 15 deadline for the loan passed, the Wythenshawe native will return to Old Trafford once his World Cup campaign with England concludes next month.

In an ironic twist, a significant factor in Barcelona’s decision was their £70 million capture of Anthony Gordon – Rashford’s main rival on the left wing for the Three Lions – from Newcastle United. The fact that Rashford has enjoyed a far better tournament in North America than Gordon thus far may be giving the Spanish giants pause for thought over that decision.

The race heats up

A number of clubs have expressed interest in profiting from Barcelona’s loss, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur. INEOS are understood to have a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ in place over a £40 million release clause to any Premier League clubs except for Liverpool or Manchester City.

Further afield, Bayern Munich – who were pursuing Gordon before Barcelona hijacked their deal – are monitoring the situation, while Fotomac reveals rivals Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are both in the hunt. A number of Saudi Pro League sides are also credited as suitors.

The report states the two Turkish heavyweights are both “closely monitoring” the Englishman after adding him to their transfer lists – a decision which has “excited” fans in Istanbul.

However, Rashford is understood to have no desire to complete a switch to the Super Lig at this stage of his career, preferring a top European club like Bayern Munich if Barcelona fail to renew talks before the end of the window. He also does not want to join another Premier League team.

Unperturbed by this, Fotomac claims Tottenham are “preparing an offer” as they have placed the forward “high on their transfer list for the summer window.” The Lilywhites are unwilling to meet Manchester United’s £40 million demand, however, further complicating their pursuit, even if Roberto De Zerbi is pushing for the deal to happen.

The report concludes that Bayern’s interest could be a “decisive factor” in Rashford’s decision, with a strong desire to play in next season’s Champions League. It is unclear whether the Bundesliga giants would be willing to pay that type of sum for a player who turns 29 in October.

Final Thoughts

Manchester United will care little where Rashford is plying his trade next season as long as that club is prepared to take him off their hands permanently. Increasingly, however, it feels as if he is willing to wait for Barcelona to revisit a move, with the Catalans believed to be interested in another loan deal, which may include an obligation to buy clause.

The Red Devils steadfastly rejected attempts to engineer this proposal during previous talks. But the lack of alternative options, in combination with Rashford’s desire to return to Spain, means INEOS may be forced to compromise and accept Barcelona’s offer if this saga drags on into August.

Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images

Manchester United are refusing to back away from their pursuit of Mateus Fernandes.

At one point, the figures at United saw Fernandes as a market opportunity, as there was a feeling West Ham United could be forced to part ways with their midfielder at a reasonable fee following their relegation.

However, Tottenham Hotspur’s willingness to pay a premium for Fernandes has allowed the Hammers to remain firm on their £85 million valuation.

Now, the two suitors are seemingly trying to gain some leverage in their negotiations with the Championship side by winning over the player’s camp.

Manchester United turn Mateus Fernandes’ head

According to Claret & Hugh, Manchester United and Tottenham have agreed personal terms with Mateus Fernandes.

The report states Fernandes was earning £20k-a-week at Southampton before signing a deal worth £60k-a-week plus £15k-a-week in bonuses with West Ham United last year.

Now, it is claimed both United and Spurs are offering approximately £130k-£140k a week. The lucrative proposals have reportedly “turned the player’s head.”

Accordingly, the 21-year-old midfielder is expected to depart the London Stadium this summer despite having four years left to run on his current contract.

United may have tabled a massive offer to Fernandes, but they have no desire to meet West Ham’s demands.

Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Appearances36 Minutes per game84 Touches58.9 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes37.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.9 Goals and assists 7

Source: Sofascore

talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs recently detailed: “But Manchester United are still in formal talks with West Ham, and what I sense here is both Man United and Spurs are waiting to see if they can get that communication from the player that he only wants to join a particular club – and then you’re in a stronger position to negotiate with West Ham United.”

At the same time, INEOS are thought to be working on a contingency plan should they miss out on their priority target.

Manchester United also in talks with Alex Scott

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United think the London outfit’s asking price is too high.

It is understood United have held talks with the representatives of Bournemouth livewire Alex Scott, as they believe a fee under £80m could be agreed with the Cherries for their English midfielder.

Time is running out for both United and Fernandes, and one party will have to make a strong push in order to unite at Old Trafford. INEOS would hope their offer and ambitious project would be enough for the Portuguese youngster to force West Ham to lower their demands.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

Manchester United are refusing to give up hope of striking a deal for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to a new report.

Primary Target

Fernandes, 21, has emerged as the priority target at Old Trafford for the midfield rebuild, with a £39 million deal already struck to sign Atalanta’s Brazilian enforcer, Ederson. Despite facing successive relegations, first with Southampton and now with West Ham, the Portugal international is one of the most in-demand talents on the market this summer.

Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 Season

Appearances36 Minutes per game84 Touches58.9 Key passes1.0 Accurate passes37.9 Interceptions 1.0 Tackles 2.9 Goals and assists 7

Source: Sofascore

United are joined by Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City in the hunt for Fernandes, while Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have both expressed interest.

The Red Devils were considered frontrunners after receiving the green light from the player over a switch to M16. However, West Ham’s price tag – believed to be as high as £80 million after signing him for £42m last summer – is far beyond INEOS’s valuation, which is closer to the £60m mark.

This has allowed Tottenham Hotspur to storm into the race by signalling their intention to match the Hammers’ demands. Spurs have also held talks with Fernandes’ camp, with the youngster open to moving across London.

United make fresh contact

Since taking control of the football operation at Old Trafford in 2024, INEOS have steadfastly sought to shift away from the mistakes of the previous hierarchy, who would invariably overpay for signings.

Nottingham Forest talisman Elliot Anderson was the primary target to replace Casemiro heading into summer. However, the Tricky Trees wanted a fee in excess of £100 million to let the 23-year-old England international leave the City Ground.

This led United to pivot towards Fernandes, with Manchester City eventually agreeing a £116m deal for Anderson, making him one of the best-paid players in the Premier League at the same time. There is a sense of déjà vu with Tottenham’s attempts to hijack United’s pursuit of the Portuguese midfielder, though INEOS appear ready to ensure a different outcome this time.

However, Matteo Moretto reveals United, spearheaded by sporting director Jason Wilcox, have made fresh contact with Fernandes’ camp, led by super agent Jorge Mendes. There is a willingness to offer improved terms to convince him to reject Spurs’ advances, and a plan to hold “direct talks” with West Ham.

The Italian transfer expert confirms Tottenham have “pressed hard” this week to find a breakthrough, but United are now “trying to get ahead” again, having led the race for weeks prior.

Final Thoughts

The market for midfielders this summer is as competitive as it is expensive. Virtually every top club in England is on the hunt for reinforcements in the engine room, with Manchester City’s club record deal for Anderson now a benchmark for pricing.

While Manchester United may wish to stick to their frugal guns on Fernandes, the cost of an alternative target – such as Bournemouth maestro Alex Scott – is unlikely to be any cheaper. Holding fresh talks with the West Ham star in hopes of staving off Tottenham Hotspur’s interest is likely a recognition of this reality.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images