Mateus Fernandes is one of the most sought after players in the summer transfer window and has now been handed an ultimatum from West Ham over his next destination amid links to Tottenham and Manchester United.
Spurs have been one of the busiest teams in the transfer window to this point and have stepped up their pursuit of West Ham midfielder.
They completed their fourth signing of the summer this week when goalkeeper Martin Dubravka joined on a free transfer and have immediately switched focus to landing the Portugal international, but face competition from a United side desperate to add to Michael Carrick’s options in midfield.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
The latest update comes from Fabrizio Romano, who is famous for sharing the biggest exclusives before mainstream media outlets. Fernandes’ agent, Jorge Mendes, is believed to be very active in pursuing a move this summer, and that combined with West Ham’s own willingness to extract the maximum value possible makes a sale highly likely. |
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Finances |
A price of £85m is believed to be the starting point for negotiations, with the Hammers hoping a bidding war breaks out between the likes of Tottenham, United, Real Madrid and even Liverpool. The Red Devils are set to spend big in the centre of the park this summer, but have already blinked due to finances once, pulling out of the Elliot Anderson sweepstakes once the price surpassed the £100m mark. |
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Scouting |
Fernandes is a technically sound midfielder who excels in winning the ball back and weaving in and out of crowded areas to get his side on the front foot. He scored three times and provided four assists in the Premier League last season. |
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Impact |
The 21 year-old’s all-action style could provide a massive benefit to his namesake, Bruno Fernandes, if he moves to Old Trafford. The United skipper was forced into more defensive responsibilities under Ruben Amorim, but thrived when Carrick moved him further forward. |
An overall package in the region of £85million for Fernandes is likely to satisfy West Ham, who are expected to cash in on a number of key players after their relegation to the Championship.
Fernandes set to have no say in summer destination
According to Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his Youtube channel, West Ham have issued an ultimatum to Fernandes and his camp this summer.
“West Ham have been clear with the agent of the player. The player will be sold to the best offer, the club offering the most money.
“Who offers one penny more is getting the player from West Ham.”
Tottenham must prioritise Fernandes
Tottenham were rocked by the news on Friday that Arsenal have joined the race for Sandro Tonali.
The Lilywhites have been pursuing both the Newcastle star and West Ham man simultaneously this summer, following a promise from the Lewis family to win back support from the fans by backing Roberto De Zerbi this summer.
Tottenham submitted a second bid to Newcastle for Tonali this week, but the offer was rejected, and they cannot afford to fail to land either of De Zerbi’s midfield targets.
Fernandes, five years Tonali’s junior at just 21, represents a far wiser long-term investment, especially in light of Lucas Bergvall’s decision to request a move away from North London.
The Sweden international was the subject of interest from Barcelona when he initially joined Tottenham, and is determined to seal a move away before the new season.
Fernandes boasts a similar skill-set to the 20 year-old and replacing his youthful exuberance is crucial after focusing on top flight experience with their first four signings.
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