West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes reportedly prefers to join Manchester United over Tottenham Hotspur.
The two Premier League clubs are currently embroiled in a tug-of-war for the Portuguese international, who is expected to leave the Hammers following their relegation.
The 21-year-old was one of the club’s few bright spots this season, so the East Londoners are eyeing a transfer fee worth £80-85 million.
Man United still stand a chance in Mateus Fernandes thanks to the player’s preference
In the latest video update on his official YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano insisted that Spurs continue to push hard for Fernandes.
The North Londoners are reportedly willing to meet West Ham’s asking price. However, Man Utd have yet to give up, as they remain in contact with the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes. The Italian journalist describes Fernandes as ‘one of the most wanted midfielders on the market’.
While the Hammers plan to sell the former Southampton man to the highest bidder, Man Utd insider Andy Mitten insists that the player would choose a move to Old Trafford, although he wouldn’t mind joining Spurs.
“Manchester United understand that the player [Mateus Fernades] wants to join the club,” said the journalist during his appearance on the Talk of the Devils podcast.
“West Ham want the highest fee, as much money as possible and an auction situation, maybe his agent does as well and the agent is influencing the player. Jorge Mendes is the agent. I’m told he would play for Spurs, but prefers Manchester United.
“It boils down to how much United want to pay for the player. They don’t want to get into an auction situation.”
What to expect from Man Utd in Fernandes transfer saga?
Last summer, Man Utd banked on players’ preference to seal more favourable deals, most notably in Bryan Mbeumo’s case, as Spurs were reportedly trying to overtake them by offering Brentford a higher bid.
But while the Cameroonian winger steadfastly rejected all other destinations, Fernandes appears to be more lenient in his stance, which gives West Ham stronger leverage.
Therefore, unless Fernandes declares he wants Man Utd, and Man Utd only, INEOS might have to get closer to West Ham’s valuation; otherwise, Tottenham will likely prevail in the race.
Author
