Manchester United look set to miss out on one of their biggest midfield targets after Tottenham Hotspur agreed an £85 million deal to sign West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes.
The 21-year-old had attracted interest from several top clubs following an impressive debut season at West Ham, with United identifying him as a key option as they continue to reshape their midfield this summer.
However, Tottenham have moved decisively to win the race, reportedly agreeing a club-record £85m fee with the Hammers.
The Portuguese international is now expected to complete a medical before finalising his move to north London.
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United remained in the running until the final stages of negotiations, but Spurs’ offer proved more attractive to West Ham because of its payment structure.
While United were prepared to pay a similar overall fee, Tottenham’s proposal included more money up front, helping them secure an agreement.
The move is another significant statement from Tottenham under Roberto De Zerbi, with Fernandes set to become one of the centrepieces of the club’s midfield rebuild.
United forced to look elsewhere
Missing out on Fernandes means Manchester United will now turn their attention to alternative midfield targets.
The Red Devils have already been linked with several players as they look to strengthen the middle of the pitch ahead of the new season.
A deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta for an initial £35 million has already been agreed, with the move set to be complete after Brazil’s World Cup campaign.
Fernandes had been viewed as an ideal signing thanks to his Premier League experience despite his young age.
After joining West Ham from Southampton last summer, he quickly established himself as one of the team’s standout performers, impressing with his composure on the ball, energy in midfield and ability to dictate play.
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Transfer blow for Manchester United
Losing out on Fernandes is a disappointment for United, who have been eager to strengthen their midfield following another inconsistent campaign.
The club are still expected to bring in reinforcements before the transfer window closes, but Fernandes had been considered one of the standout options available on the market.
Instead, he now appears set to join Tottenham in what is one of the biggest Premier League transfers of the summer.
For United, attention will quickly switch to securing other targets as they continue their squad rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 season.
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