Man Utd likely to miss out on top midfield target after not meeting the asking price, with Spurs stepping in
Manchester United might miss out on their top midfield target, as Spurs look set to swoop in—especially since United aren’t willing to pay big fees this summer.
With Casemiro leaving Old Trafford, United are ready to shake up their midfield and have already agreed to spend £35 million on Atalanta and Brazil midfielder Ederson. That deal seems to be going smoothly, but their chase for Portugal’s Matheus Fernandes is proving tougher.
Fernandes, who just saw West Ham get relegated on the final day, has been linked heavily with United. Despite West Ham’s drop, Fernandes’ stock has gone up, and he was even nominated for the Premier League Young Player of the Season. Big clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are also interested, but the latest news from TEAMtalk says Spurs are getting closer to a deal.
West Ham want £85 million, and Spurs are ready to make their club-record bid—offering £65 million upfront, with the rest in bonuses and add-ons. The report says the deal is moving fast, with Fernandes agreeing to personal terms. Staying in London at Spurs, where he’d play a big role in Roberto De Zerbi’s plans, seems attractive to him.
United aren’t completely out yet and talks continue, but they don’t want to overpay for any player. That might be the difference with the 21-year-old, whose idol is United captain Bruno Fernandes—and United can offer Champions League football.
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, will be leading their efforts on this transfer. The club also wants to avoid past mistakes by spending too much or offering big wages that could cause problems later on.
Fernandes joined West Ham last summer for over £40 million from Southampton. He made his Portugal debut in March but wasn’t picked for the World Cup squad.
Meanwhile, United have others in mind for midfield, with Bournemouth’s Alex Scott also on their radar. But new Bournemouth boss Marco Rose has said he doesn’t want to sell Scott, despite United’s interest. Scott played a key part in Bournemouth’s record sixth-place finish last season and was even considered for the England squad before the World Cup.