Former Manchester United and West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham has claimed that United shouldn't feel too disheartened about losing out on Mateus Fernandes, arguing the midfielder isn't up to the standard the club needs. The Portugal international had been a priority target for United this summer, but now appears destined to join Tottenham.
Spurs agree £85m deal
Spurs have struck an £85 million agreement with West Ham for the deal. It's a fee that United were unwilling to meet, with the club now expected to pursue alternative options.
The development marks the latest setback in the hunt for midfield reinforcements this summer, with another target in Elliot Anderson on the verge of a £116 million switch to Manchester City. This has prompted speculation that the club might shift strategy in the transfer market and pursue cheaper, though less proven alternatives.
Sheringham's verdict
Yet Sheringham seems to be advocating the opposite approach, urging United to chase elite talent regardless of the expense.
"Man Utd fans shouldn't be upset at missing out on Mateus Fernandes - he simply isn't good enough for the club," he told ComeOn.
"I wasn't so impressed with Mateus Fernandes at West Ham this year. A lot of West Ham fans think he'll go on to bigger and better things but the jury's still out for me on Fernandes."
"Manchester United need top players. They've already got enough decent players. They need to buy the top players or they will miss out again and again."
Comparison to past targets
Sheringham drew parallels with previous missed opportunities: "It was the same with Harry Kane and Declan Rice a few years ago when the chance was there to go and sign them. United were nowhere in the market for them. Sir Alex Ferguson wouldn't have let that happen."
"Sir Alex always brought in the top players and they came in and led by example, and you need those top players at a club like United otherwise you'll end up in the same situation."
"It's not about having good players. You want great players playing for Manchester United because it takes a lot to play for the club. So go out and break the bank for the top players and let them lead."
Champions League return
United are gearing up for a return to the Champions League in the 2026/27 campaign, following a third-place finish last term. It will mark their first involvement in the competition since the 2023/24 season.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are looking for a vast improvement on last season, when they survived relegation to the Championship on the final day.
