UMVA has learned that a major transfer blow is set to hit Manchester United, as Mateus Fernandes is poised to leave West Ham this summer.
Fernandes has attracted interest from a host of top clubs, but Arsenal have already withdrawn from the transfer race and turned to other targets. Meanwhile, Real have also now ruled out a move for Fernandes, turning their attention towards Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
However, Fernandes has expressed a clear desire to move to Tottenham, where he believes he has more chances of regular minutes to aid his progression. This development would come as a hammer blow to the United hierarchy, who have reportedly already agreed personal terms with Fernandes.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Spurs are now in talks with West Ham as they look to overtake United and land a statement signing to bolster Roberto De Zerbi's midfield. West Ham are holding out for a fee of around £80million for Fernandes, with Spurs reportedly happy to pay more than United for the 21-year-old.
Tottenham are reportedly closing in on a deal for Fernandes, with a transfer journalist suggesting that Spurs are surprising people with the amount of money they're willing to spend. There is a belief that Fernandes still wants to come and play for United, but it's not just players, there are agents involved, and it tends to be that the player goes to whoever's offering them the most money.
Alongside their interest in Fernandes, Tottenham are also exploring a deal for Sandro Tonali but saw their first bid of £75m rejected by Newcastle United. A former Red Devils striker had urged United to do everything they can to land Fernandes, saying he thinks he's exactly what they need and a very good pick.
