Tottenham appear to have found themselves in a direct battle with Manchester United for Mateus Fernandes, but there may be one key factor that tips the race in their favour.
Tottenham Hotspur are currently targeting two midfield additions this summer, with Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes both heavily linked as part of their rebuild.
Neither player will come cheaply, with Tonali valued at around £100 million and Fernandes said to be worth between £80 million and £90 million.
Spurs also face stiff competition, with Manchester City and Arsenal keen on Tonali, while Manchester United are firmly in the race for Fernandes.
Tottenham hold advantage over Man United in Mateus Fernandes pursuit
Spurs Web has reported that Tottenham have opened talks with Fernandes agent and are preparing a €70 million (£60.4 million) bid.
That figure falls short of West Ham’s asking price, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side claimed to want £80 million for the midfielder.
Sky Sport reporter Michael Bridge, speaking on the Last Word on Sport podcast, has now revealed that Tottenham may have a slight edge in the race for the West Ham man.
According to the journalist, Fernandes is believed to love living in London, which is interesting since the race this summer seems to be between Manchester (United) and London (Tottenham).
However, it is worth noting that Manchester United are said to have agreed personal terms with Fernandes, while Spurs have yet to do so.
Spurs spending could soar past £290m with Fernandes and Tonali
If Tottenham were to secure both Tonali and Fernandes this summer, their spending would reach £232 million, with Tonali priced at £100 million and Fernandes at £80 million.
That figure could rise further if Spurs also complete a deal for wide forward Savinho, who has been linked with a £60 million move to north London.
Should all three signings be completed, Tottenham’s total outlay would hit £292 million, a figure far higher than their spending last summer.