Tottenham Hotspur are set to complete a club-record signing, agreeing an £85m deal to acquire Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. The Portuguese midfielder has chosen Spurs over Manchester United, marking a significant coup for manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Fernandes strengthens midfield options
Fernandes, 24, will undergo a medical before finalizing his contract. His arrival bolsters De Zerbi's central midfield, adding creativity and depth after Tottenham narrowly avoided relegation last season. De Zerbi has been backed with substantial funds this summer, also targeting Newcastle's Sandro Tonali.
West Ham's relegation from the Premier League triggered Fernandes' departure. He joined the Hammers from Southampton for £38m last summer and impressed with consistent performances. Arsenal and Real Madrid also showed interest, but only Tottenham met West Ham's asking price. Manchester United deemed the fee excessive and are exploring other midfield targets.
Spurs' busy transfer window
Tottenham have already reinforced their defense, signing Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for £52m and securing Marcos Senesi on a free transfer from Bournemouth. The club's aggressive spending reflects De Zerbi's ambition to rebuild the squad.
West Ham's financial rebuild
The £85m sale is the highest ever for a Championship club. West Ham, who lost £104.2m last year, will use the funds to ease financial pressures. Daniel Kretinsky, set to become the club's largest shareholder after acquiring a portion of the Gold family's shares, is expected to inject fresh capital.
Despite the influx, West Ham may still lose winger Crysencio Summerville, targeted by Manchester United and Chelsea. Jarrod Bowen is attracting interest from Aston Villa, Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea, though West Ham are determined to retain their captain. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jean-Clair Todibo are also likely departures.
