Tottenham has finalized an £85 million agreement to acquire Portugal midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham.
The north London club successfully outbid Manchester United, who opted not to meet the fee agreed by Spurs, which is a straightforward £85 million without additional conditions.
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The 21-year-old was considered a key target for Tottenham following their unsuccessful £80 million bid for Sandro Tonali, which Newcastle rejected.
Fernandes was reportedly open to exploring both Tottenham and Manchester United, as his agent, Jorge Mendes, engaged in discussions with both clubs.
Manchester United remains steadfast in its strategy of only pursuing signings they deem appropriately valued.
They showed interest in Fernandes but believe their cautious approach proved beneficial last season when they acquired players at favorable prices.
Concerns also arose regarding whether Fernandes genuinely wanted to join the club.
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At Old Trafford, prioritizing enhancements to their central midfield area continues, with a £35 million deal already secured for Ederson, although his arrival is on hold due to a late call-up for the Brazil World Cup squad.
As players are expected back for pre-season training on 9 July, the squad remains unchanged aside from departing out-of-contract players Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia. No notable changes have occurred since the end of the last season.
The intended transfer of Manuel Ugarte has been put on hold following his serious injury while representing Uruguay in the World Cup. Additionally, Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee remains with the club, and reports concerning the potential departure of midfielder Mason Mount have been dismissed.
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[BBC]