Manchester United have stepped up their pursuit of Mateus Fernandes. Contact with the midfielder’s camp and West Ham has continued for weeks, and the Red Devils now sit firmly in pole position. Yet they are not alone in this race.

Spurs Enter Without Derailing United’s Lead

Tottenham have also picked up the phone. The north London club called Fernandes’ agent to explore a route into the deal, joining United and, at various points, Manchester City and Real Madrid in the conversation. Still, sources close to the situation describe United as the player’s clear preference. He reportedly wants the move to Old Trafford to happen.

Money remains the sticking point. West Ham, freshly relegated, are holding out for around £80million. United have pushed offers closer to £60million, banking on the Hammers’ need to balance the books after dropping out of the Premier League. That gap hasn’t closed yet, but neither side appears ready to walk away.

Tonali Pursuit Runs on a Separate Track

Crucially, Tottenham’s interest in Fernandes is not their only midfield project. It runs alongside, but separately from, their pursuit of Sandro Tonali at Newcastle. On that front, Spurs sound considerably more confident. Reports suggest personal terms are close to being agreed, with the Italian leaning toward a switch south. Newcastle, though, won’t budge below roughly £80million themselves, and they don’t want to sell at all.

So Tottenham’s midfield rebuild now has two tracks running simultaneously. One, Tonali, looks like their priority and the deal furthest along. The other, Fernandes, feels more like cover. Insiders suggest De Zerbi wants both, but ultimately, only one secures top billing.

For now, expect United to keep talking. Expect Spurs to keep their options open. And expect West Ham to hold firm until someone blinks first.