Manchester United will now explore a deal for Alex Scott after receiving confirmation that Mateus Fernandes will be joining Tottenham Hotspur.
David Ornstein revealed on Tuesday afternoon that Spurs had agreed a deal with West Ham worth £85 million to sign Fernandes, who, according to Samuel Luckhurst, will earn ‘silly money’ in North London.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham Hotspur win race to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United. Spurs submitted highest proposal (believed to be ~£85m guaranteed) & 21yo #WHUFC midfielder opted to join #THFC. Numbers beyond where #MUFC willing to go @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/8JMyfl8LoS
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 30, 2026
United were right to avoid Fernandes bidding war
While fans may feel aggrieved at missing out on the 21-year-old prospect, it’s clear why United were so reluctant to overpay, especially for a player who’s overseen back-to-back relegations.
In addition, INEOS are said to be adamant about only signing targets who are 100% committed to joining United – like Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko were last year.
This time around, they haven’t felt the same assurances from Fernandes or Elliot Anderson.
Whether they will from Scott, however, remains to be seen.
"He's been very consistent, playing at a very high level"
Andoni Iraola on Alex Scott 🌟 pic.twitter.com/MdEovcOzjI
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026
INEOS set sights on Scott despite Bournemouth reluctance
The Bournemouth ace, 22, is next in line on United’s shortlist (Ben Jacobs) as they continue plotting their midfield overhaul, which kickstarted with their agreement for Atalanta’s Ederson.
As was the case this time last year, securing stars who’ve already proven themselves in the Premier League is a surefire way to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth; both Mbeumo and Cunha each returned 10 league goals in their maiden campaigns, and the latter has since been one of the standout performers at the World Cup.
Scott has racked up 80 top-flight appearances since joining the Cherries from Bristol City in a £25m move in 2023.
| Season | Appearances | Minutes played |
| 25/26 | 37 | 2,860 |
| 24/25 | 20 | 751 |
| 23/24 | 23 | 1,010 |
He has played an integral role under Andoni Iraola as the Dorset outfit went from strength to strength over the last three seasons, which, in May, culminated with the side qualifying for Europe for the first time in their history in the form of the Europa League.
Bournemouth are frantically working to try and add a release clause to Scott’s contract in hopes of deterring outside interest from United and Arsenal.
They value him at £80m, though the Reds are of the belief this could be negotiated to a lower fee with the inclusion of add-ons.
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