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Mateus Fernandes was on the verge of signing for Real Madrid after his agent Jorge Mendes reportedly secured a full agreement for the transfer. Despite Jose Mourinho identifying the Portuguese midfielder as a key target, the club’s top management decided against finalising the deal due to financial constraints.

Real Madrid backed out of Fernandes deal

According to reports from Fichajes, Fernandes was close to becoming a Real Madrid player before the club’s board halted the move. Mourinho had earlier marked the 22-year-old as a priority signing during the club’s summer transfer planning. The Portuguese manager saw Fernandes’ strength and adaptability as crucial for reinforcing the midfield as part of a long-term rebuilding effort.

After delivering an impressive season with West Ham United, featuring in 36 Premier League matches, Fernandes had caught the attention of several top clubs. However, Real Madrid’s hierarchy refused to approve the transfer due to the high cost involved.

Reasons behind Madrid’s withdrawal revealed

Radio Marca journalist Sergio Valentin reported that Fernandes had been among Mourinho’s preferred options from the outset of the transfer window. The manager was keen on bringing him in to add a powerful, box-to-box presence to his midfield.

The report further detailed that Mendes had already progressed in discussions with both the player and his club, leaving Los Blancos in a strong position to close the deal. Nevertheless, the club eventually decided to withdraw from negotiations.

Real Madrid were reportedly not prepared to match the financial offer that ultimately took Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs completed the signing for approximately £85 million (€98 million), a figure that Madrid viewed as excessive for the role they wanted to fill during this window.

Madrid’s changing midfield priorities

The decision has sparked internal debate about Real Madrid’s midfield strategy. Mourinho had been pushing for a more athletic player even though the squad already included talents like Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga. Instead, the club shifted its focus towards signing Bernardo Silva. While Mourinho is said to have believed that both Fernandes and Silva could coexist effectively, the sporting department opted to prioritise other areas, effectively bringing an end to Fernandes’ potential move.

What lies ahead for Real Madrid?

The same report suggests that Real Madrid are unlikely to make further signings unless one of their key players departs. However, Los Blancos continue to be linked with Manchester City’s Rodri and Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez as potential future targets.