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Manchester United’s pursuit of Mateus Fernandes appears to be facing significant obstacles as competition intensifies for the midfielder’s signature.

The Red Devils have already secured the signing of Ederson from Atalanta, but head coach Michael Carrick remains focused on a complete overhaul of his midfield options this summer.

Following failed attempts to land Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali due to inflated transfer fees, United identified the West Ham United star as their next realistic target.

However, negotiating with West Ham has proven difficult, as the East London club continues to demand £80 million for Fernandes despite suffering relegation.

Adding to United’s challenge, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have also expressed interest in the 21-year-old, while Tottenham Hotspur have now entered the race to sign him.

According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Spurs are determined to avoid a repeat of their struggles over the past two seasons and are fully committed to supporting new manager Roberto De Zerbi in the transfer market.

De Zerbi, who took charge earlier this summer, is reportedly a strong admirer of the Portuguese midfielder, and Tottenham are prepared to go head-to-head with Manchester United in pursuit of the player.

Interestingly, Tottenham are also exploring a separate move for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, highlighting their intent to strengthen their midfield options comprehensively.

“Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes, while they continue to pursue Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali.

“Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi is pushing to bring in Fernandes, 21, for whom West Ham have set an asking price of £80 million ($106.7 million).

“Tottenham have also held discussions with Tonali’s representatives but face competition from several clubs, including Manchester City, who are strong contenders for the Italian’s signature.”

INEOS, United’s ownership group, will need to remain vigilant to prevent a late hijack of their transfer plans. Fortunately for them, Fernandes is believed to favour a move to Old Trafford, partly due to his desire to play alongside his idol, Bruno Fernandes.

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