Tottenham’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements has taken a new turn as competition for one of manager Roberto De Zerbi’s main targets intensifies, with the latest information on Matheus Fernandes also linked to Man United.
Spurs have made strengthening their midfield a priority this summer, with De Zerbi looking to add two new midfielders before the start of the new Premier League campaign.
Newcastle star Sandro Tonali remains firmly on Tottenham’s shortlist despite the Magpies rejecting an opening offer worth around £80m.
Newcastle are thought to be worth well over £100m for the Italy international and have shown little appetite for going below that figure, but the Lilywhites are thought not to have given up.
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Fernandes could be signed alongside Tonali on a separate contract.
The Portugal international only joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer after impressing in individual games despite Saints being relegated from the Premier League.
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Spurs are determined to back Roberto De Zerbi.
West Ham moved quickly to secure a deal worth more than £40 million, with the 21-year-old signing a five-year deal at the London Stadium.
Fernandes quickly adapted to life at West Ham and became one of the club’s standout performers during a difficult season.
The midfielder made 36 appearances in the Premier League, scoring three goals and providing four assists while regularly playing in a box-to-box role.
Fernandes produced one of West Ham’s best moments of the season with his long-range shot in the win against Sunderland, and the goal was later named the club’s Goal of the Season.
His energetic play, progressive passing and ability to carry the ball into midfield attracted interest from several powerful clubs.
Tottenham are one of the teams most keen to sign De Zerbi as he looks to rebuild his squad.
However, Spurs face a significant threat from their biggest rivals in the Premier League, Man United, and they are not going to give up without a fight.
Tottenham address Matheus Fernandes concerns after Man United update
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Man United remain determined to sign Fernandes despite continued interest from Tottenham.
Plettenberg reports that United are refusing to give up on their pursuit of the Portugal international and expects there will be no problems with his personal terms if an agreement is reached with West Ham.
He added that negotiations are still ongoing as the battle for the midfielder continues.
This latest update represents concern for Tottenham after weeks of positive reports regarding their own pursuit.
Recent reports suggest that Spurs are holding productive talks about a potential deal and are optimistic they can reach an agreement with West Ham, although United remain a major threat.
Why Tottenham are keen on Matthäus Fernandes
Fernandes’ age and profile make him an attractive long-term deal.
Still only 21, he gained experience in Portugal with Sporting CP and Estoril before adapting well to English football with Southampton and West Ham.
He also made his Portugal first team debut earlier this year after coming through the Portuguese youth ranks.
De Zerbi is thought to want both experience and energy in midfield this summer, with Tottenham’s simultaneous interest in Tonali and Fernandes also explained.
Tonali will bring proven quality and Champions League experience, while Fernandes represents one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders after an excellent season at West Ham.
United are currently stepping up their efforts and Tottenham may need to act quickly if they are to land one of De Zerbi’s priority targets ahead of the new season.
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The Gunners could swoop in and take over the move.
