Tottenham have accelerated talks to sign Mateus Fernandes ahead of Manchester United, having offered the midfielder a huge salary package, according to reports. United have made the West Ham star a top target for their midfield rebuild this summer, with the Hammers valuing him at £80 million.
United's valuation struggle
Michael Carrick's side have been reluctant to meet that price, valuing him closer to £60m, but were said to have agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old, who was reportedly keen to link up with countryman Bruno Fernandes at Old Trafford. Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have also explored a move, but Tottenham have made their move to hijack the deal.
It emerged this week Fernandes would also be keen on a move to Spurs, with BBC Sport reporting the north London side are now optimistic of agreeing a deal. After their brush with relegation last season, Tottenham have moved aggressively in the transfer market, having already signed Marco Senesi and Andy Robertson on free transfers from Bournemouth and Liverpool, and Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for £52m. They have also made an offer of around £80m for Sandro Tonali, one rejected by Newcastle United.
Spurs' aggressive approach
Fernandes is now viewed as a primary target, with The Sun reporting Tottenham are prepared to make a huge salary offer that will 'blow United out of the water.' United already seem set to miss out on Elliot Anderson, with the Nottingham Forest star preferring a move to Manchester City. Losing out in the race to sign Fernandes would serve as a big blow to their midfield rebuild plans.
The club are also interested in signing Alex Scott from Bournemouth, with Arsenal and Liverpool also keen on the England international. United have enquired into a move only to be told Scott is not for sale this summer. Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba are also of interest, with a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta expected to be confirmed next month.
