Mateus Fernandes does not have a preference which club he joins this summer, as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur go head-to-head for his signature.
That is according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, who explained on his latest YouTube video that both clubs are in verbal communication with West Ham over a deal to sign the 21-year-old this summer.
United are keen to sign a second midfielder, having already agreed a £38million to sign Ederson from Atalanta. Meanwhile Spurs are looking to make a statement signing for Roberto De Zerbi, with midfield next on the agenda after making three defender signings and a goalkeeper move already.
West Ham hoping for a bidding war
Fernandes is looking for a move away from the London Stadium following West Ham’s relegation to the Championship last season, which coincidentally came as a result of Spurs winning on the final day of the season to save their bacon.
There are differing reports each day when it comes to Fernandes’ future, and it is the Hammers who will be relishing the rumours, given they will hope to drive up the price for the Portuguese player with two teams keen on signing him.
West Ham want at least £80million to sell this summer – double what they paid Southampton for him just last year – and talks are ongoing with both clubs. And Fernandes is likely to end up at the club who pays the most.
Romano said: “I see many reports, one day he’s close to United, one day he’s close to Tottenham. The reality of this story is that Mateus Fernandes is prepared to go to Man United or Tottenham. The player is open to both moves.
“He doesn’t want to stay at West Ham, obviously, he doesn’t want to play in the Championship next season, it’s almost impossible, but he’s ready to go to Man Utd, Tottenham, the player is not creating an issue on this.
Both clubs in verbal talks for Fernandes transfer
“The point is to reach an agreement with West Ham and now, trust me, behind the scenes, we are not seeing many reports on an official bid sent, official proposal sent, but Man Utd and Tottenham are driving the process with the player’s camp and with West Ham by attacking every single day.
“One day Tottenham is bidding, one day Manchester United is bidding, but it’s all about verbal proposals. I told you the player will go to the club able to reach an agreement with West Ham on finance, and so who is paying the best money to West Ham is going to get the deal done. It’s about reaching an agreement with West Ham.