World Cup
Tottenham push West Ham for Fernandes at €92m price tag
Tottenham Hotspur currently lead the race to sign West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes. The London club believes it can outbid Manchester United for the 21-year-old Portugal international, sought-after target following West Ham United’s relegation from the Premier League. Tottenham are now in pole position to complete the deal, with a fee that could reach €92 million. The Lilywhites are prepared to exceed Manchester United’s offer, though the interest from Arsenal and Real Madrid has reportedly cooled.
Despite his strong performances for West Ham, Fernandes was not selected for the recent World Cup squad. Portugal manager Roberto Martínez opted instead for midfielders Vitinha, João Neves, Rúben Neves, Samu Costa, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva. West Ham, however, stand to make a significant profit on the player. The Hammers paid €44 million to Southampton last summer, with a 15% sell-on clause still attached.
Fernandes contributed three goals and four assists in 36 competitive appearances last season. He is not Tottenham’s only midfield target. The club, managed by Roberto de Zerbi, is also monitoring Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, valued at €115 million. Tonali has been linked with multiple clubs, including Manchester City.
Tottenham’s midfield reshuffle includes the expected departure of Lucas Bergvall, who has requested a move away. The club has already strengthened defensively this summer with the free signing of Andrew Robertson and the €60 million acquisition of Marcos Senesi from Brighton. Dutch defender Jan Paul van Hecke also joined for €60 million.