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Fabrizio Romano has stated that West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is yet to decide whether to join Manchester United under Michael Carrick or opt for Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham Hotspur.

Both Manchester United and Tottenham are reportedly the most determined clubs seeking to finalise a deal for Fernandes during the summer transfer window.

Following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League, the London side appear resigned to losing the 21-year-old Portuguese international midfielder.

However, West Ham have placed a valuation of £85 million on Fernandes and remain firm in their stance, refusing to reduce their asking price.

Some reports have suggested that Fernandes has already agreed to join Tottenham, even though Manchester United are continuing negotiations for the young midfielder.

Meanwhile, a Manchester United journalist has claimed that Fernandes prefers a move to Old Trafford.

Amid these conflicting claims, renowned transfer expert Romano has clarified that Fernandes has not yet made a decision between the two Premier League giants.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained: “Guys, I still stand by my update on this transfer. For Mateus Fernandes, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are still battling it out.”

He continued: “Tottenham have been active for several days, engaging with the player and his agent, while Manchester United remain in contact with West Ham. United are still working on the Mateus Fernandes deal.”

Romano further noted that West Ham have been very transparent with the player’s representatives, making it clear that Fernandes will be sold to the highest bidder. “Whoever offers even slightly more money will get the player from West Ham,” he said.

“Mateus Fernandes has kept his options open with both Tottenham and Manchester United, so the decision now lies with West Ham. If they accept United’s bid, he will go to Old Trafford; if Tottenham’s offer wins, he will join Spurs. The race remains wide open, and from what I have heard, Manchester United have not given up on Fernandes.”

Romano added that several other clubs have also shown interest in the midfielder, describing him as “one of the most sought-after talents” in Europe. “Real Madrid mentioned him in discussions with Jose Mourinho three weeks ago, and Liverpool made an enquiry toward the end of May,” he revealed.

“There are many clubs keen on Mateus Fernandes, but right now Manchester United and Tottenham are pushing the hardest to finalise the move. Let’s see who ultimately wins this race.”

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen recently expressed that Fernandes would be an excellent addition to Carrick’s team.

Speaking to Metro on June 12, Owen said: “Casemiro’s shoes are huge ones to fill, aren’t they? Many people had written him off, but he had an outstanding final two-thirds of the season. Personally, if I were Michael Carrick and managing Manchester United, I’d go for Fernandes from West Ham. He’s very good and exactly what they need.”

Owen added: “They might miss out on Elliot Anderson from Manchester City, but there are plenty of names around — Baleba from Brighton, Scott from Bournemouth — yet my choice would still be Fernandes from West Ham.”

He continued: “I thought he was excellent last season. I watched him several times and believe he’s a smart pick. He’s still quite young, which is a big plus. When you’re spending between £80 million and £100 million, you don’t want a player in their late 20s.”

“I could see him forming a fantastic partnership with Kobbie Mainoo in midfield. The other big factor is that he should be attainable. With West Ham dropping into the Championship, Fernandes won’t want to play there, so I think he’s very gettable — and a very good option.”