Tottenham make a bold move to sign Mateus Fernandes before Man Utd does
Tottenham are reportedly ready to make a big move to beat Manchester United in the race to sign Matheus Fernandes.
The Premier League transfer window has only been open for two weeks, but several clubs are already competing for top players.
Early on, Liverpool signed Osasuna winger Victor Munoz by triggering his €40 million (£34.6m) release clause, beating Newcastle United to the deal.
But the biggest battle this summer seems to be between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, both chasing West Ham’s Fernandes.
The Portugal international is seen as one of the most exciting midfielders in England. He might be available after West Ham’s relegation at the end of the 2025/26 season.
Even though several clubs are interested, Spurs and United are the main contenders to sign the 21-year-old, with talks going on for a deal worth around £85 million.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently said Fernandes is open to joining either club, but the decision depends on West Ham.
“The player is ready to accept both projects. Now it depends on the club that can agree terms with West Ham,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.
“It’s about the money — starting at £85 million, but it could go higher if the clubs keep competing. The payment schedule also matters to West Ham, so it’s not just about the fee but also when the money is paid.”
Reports suggest Manchester United is currently leading, but Spurs might step up their efforts with a bold offer.
According to TeamTalk, Spurs have offered some players to try and make their deal more attractive than United’s.
One of the players included is young winger Mikey Moore, who impressed during a loan at Rangers last season.
The 18-year-old made 47 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.
Moore was expected to go back to Rangers on loan this season, but he might now be part of the offer to help secure Fernandes.
With West Ham possibly losing at least one winger, like Crysensico Summerville or Jarrod Bowen, they could be tempted by the chance to sign an exciting young player ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Still, the report says Fernandes prefers a move to Old Trafford, and talks between United and West Ham are moving forward.