Manchester United are set to take a big step in their pursuit of Mateus Fernandes after Tottenham Hotspur made advances towards the West Ham United star.
Spurs have been speaking to Fernandes’ agent over a mov for the past few days, and they are now expected to take the next step.
Reports over the last 24 hours have claimed that Tottenham have held positive talks with West Ham over a deal for the midfielder, as they look to steal a march on Man United.
However, the Red Devils have not given up on the 21-year-old just yet and may now be ready to push for the Portugal international.
Man United set to launch an official approach for Fernandes
TEAMtalk claim that United are now ‘expected to launch an official approach’ for the midfielder over the ‘coming days’.
It is explained that the Red Devils still consider themselves to be ‘strong favourites’ to win the race for Fernandes.
Sources suggest that reaching an agreement with the player is not expected to be a problem for Man United, who have found the talks over personal terms to be ‘smooth’.
However, Tottenham have also made ‘significant progress’ towards agreeing personal terms with Fernandes. The biggest challenge for United is the Hammers’ asking price of €93m (£80m).
While the Lilywhites are ‘most likely prepared to meet that valuation’ in a layered deal, the offer from Michael Carrick’s side is expected to fall well short.
Man United believe they have two advantages over Spurs in Fernandes pursuit
Despite the growing competition from the North Londoners, United retain confidence they can win the race for the West Ham man, and they believe two factors work in their favour.
The first is that there is an understanding at Old Trafford that Fernandes is keen on playing alongside Bruno Fernandes, who is one of his idols.
Additionally, United believe that the offer of Champions League football will hold ‘major sway’ for the former Southampton man as he chooses between a move to N17 and Manchester.