Tottenham’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements has taken another twist as competition intensifies for one of Roberto De Zerbi’s leading targets, with a Mateus Fernandes update coming to light involving Man United.
Spurs have made strengthening the middle of the park a priority this summer as De Zerbi looks to add two new midfielders before the new Premier League campaign gets underway.
Newcastle star Sandro Tonali remains firmly on Tottenham’s shortlist despite the Magpies rejecting an opening offer worth around £80 million.
Newcastle are understood to value the Italy international at well over £100 million and have shown little willingness to go below that number, but the Lilywhites are not believed to be giving up.
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Fernandes could also be signed alongside Tonali in a separate deal.
The Portugal international only joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer after an impressive individual campaign despite the Saints’ relegation from the Premier League.
Offer made: Tottenham submit £65m up front bid to sign “quick” player
Spurs are determined to back Roberto De Zerbi.
West Ham moved quickly to secure his signature in a deal worth more than £40 million, with the 21-year-old signing a five-year contract at the London Stadium.
Fernandes adapted quickly to life at West Ham and became one of the club’s standout performers during a difficult campaign.
The midfielder made 36 Premier League appearances, scoring three goals and providing four assists while regularly operating in a box-to-box role.
Fernandes produced one of the moments of West Ham’s season with a long-range strike in the victory over Sunderland, a goal that was later voted the club’s Goal of the Season.
His energetic displays, progressive passing and ability to carry the ball through midfield attracted interest from several leading clubs.
Tottenham have been among the sides pushing hardest for his signature as De Zerbi looks to reshape his squad.
However, Spurs have faced a significant threat from one of their biggest Premier League rivals in Man United, who are by no means giving up without a fight.
Tottenham dealt Mateus Fernandes worry after Man United update
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Man United remain determined to sign Fernandes despite Tottenham’s ongoing interest.
Plettenberg reports that United are refusing to give up on the Portugal international and that personal terms are not expected to present a problem if a deal can be agreed with West Ham.
He adds that negotiations remain ongoing as the battle for the midfielder continues.
That latest update represents a concern for Tottenham after weeks of positive reports surrounding their own pursuit.
Recent reports have suggested Spurs have held productive discussions over a potential deal and remain optimistic they can reach an agreement with West Ham, but United are still a major threat.
Why Tottenham are so keen on Mateus Fernandes
Fernandes’ age and profile make him an attractive long-term signing.
Still only 21, he has already gained experience in Portugal with Sporting CP and Estoril before adapting successfully to English football with Southampton and West Ham.
He also earned his senior Portugal debut earlier this year after progressing through the country’s youth ranks.
De Zerbi is understood to want both experience and energy in midfield this summer, which explains Tottenham’s simultaneous interest in Tonali and Fernandes.
While Tonali would bring proven quality and Champions League experience, Fernandes represents one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders after his excellent campaign at West Ham.
With United now stepping up their efforts, Tottenham may have to move quickly if they are to win the race for one of De Zerbi’s priority targets ahead of the new season.
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The Gunners could pounce and hijack the move.
