Tottenham Hotspur have secured a major transfer victory over Manchester United by signing West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes for a club-record £85 million guaranteed, according to The Athletic. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder was the subject of interest from several top clubs, including Real Madrid, following West Ham's relegation from the Premier League. However, the race narrowed to a battle between Spurs and Manchester United, with the north London club ultimately prevailing with the highest offer.
Record deal for Spurs
The £85 million fee surpasses Tottenham's previous record of £65 million spent on Dominic Solanke in 2024. Fernandes has agreed personal terms and will become the fourth signing of the summer for manager Roberto De Zerbi, who is overseeing a major squad revamp. Earlier arrivals include Liverpool legend Andy Robertson, Marco Senesi, and Jan Paul van Hecke, the latter costing £52 million from Brighton. Robertson and Senesi joined on free transfers.
West Ham profit handsomely
For West Ham, the deal represents a significant profit, having signed Fernandes for around £38 million less than 12 months ago. Manchester United, meanwhile, were unwilling to match Tottenham's bid, allowing their rivals to seal the transfer. Fernandes is expected to bolster Spurs' midfield as they aim to build on De Zerbi's project.
More details are expected to follow as the transfer is officially confirmed.
