Manchester United are now reportedly hesitating over a move for West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes as Tottenham continues to push hard for a deal.
The underlying numbers place Fernandes in the top two for several key midfield metrics when compared with Tottenham’s current options.
It is no surprise then that Spurs are keen to bring him to north London as they look to bolster their midfield ahead of the new campaign.
However, they must overcome competition from Manchester United, who are also keen on Fernandes and have already agreed personal terms with the 21-year-old.
Tottenham prepare Mateus Fernandes bid as United hesitate
Tottenham are yet to agree personal terms with Fernandes, but Spurs have made contact with the Portuguese midfielder’s agent as they move closer to reaching an agreement.
The Lilywhites are also understood to be preparing their first bid for Fernandes, with West Ham valuing the 21-year-old at £80 million while Spurs are readying an offer of £60 million.
Manchester United remain in the race, but according to journalist Peter Hall of the iPaper, the Hammers’ asking price is currently putting the Red Devils off.
De Zerbi key to Spurs’ hopes of landing Fernandes
From a sporting perspective, a move to Manchester United carries greater appeal given their Champions League status, while Tottenham failed to secure qualification.
Spurs, however, are hopeful that head coach Roberto De Zerbi can play a decisive role in convincing Fernandes to choose north London.
The midfielder would undoubtedly improve Tottenham in that area of the pitch as they continue their rebuilding project this summer.
| Player | Duel % Rank | Possession Won Rank | Progressive Carries Rank | Forward Passes Rank | Forward Pass % Rank | Key Passes Rank | Progressive Passes Rank | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mateus Fernandes | 1st | 2nd | 2nd | 1st | 2nd | 2nd | 1st | 3,302 |
| João Palhinha | 2nd | 1st | 7th | 2nd | 5th | 7th | 2nd | 2,486 |
| Lucas Bergvall | 7th | 7th | 1st | 7th | 7th | 5th | 7th | 1,085 |
| Archie Gray | 6th | 6th | 4th | 4th | 4th | 3rd | 3rd | 1,673 |
| Conor Gallagher | 5th | 5th | 5th | 5th | 3rd | 1st | 4th | 1,328 |
| Pape Matar Sarr | 4th | 3rd | 3rd | 6th | 1st | 4th | 5th | 1,613 |
| Rodrigo Bentancur | 3rd | 4th | 6th | 3rd | 6th | 6th | 6th | 2,077 |
- READ MORE: ‘I don’t want to call it arrogance’ – Ledley King’s early impression of Tottenham’s Luka Vuskovic