Tottenham Hotspur are set to break their transfer record after agreeing an £85 million deal to sign Portugal international Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United, beating Manchester United to the midfielder's signature.
Fernandes Set for Medical Ahead of Move
The 24-year-old is due to undergo a medical before completing the move, which will strengthen Roberto De Zerbi's options in central midfield. De Zerbi, who helped Tottenham narrowly avoid relegation last season, has been handed significant funds this summer and has already bolstered his defence by signing Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for £52 million and securing Marcos Senesi on a free transfer from Bournemouth.
Interest from Top Clubs
Fernandes was also targeted by Manchester United, Arsenal, and Real Madrid, but Tottenham were the only club willing to meet West Ham's asking price. United felt the numbers were too high and are looking elsewhere for midfield additions. Fernandes joined West Ham from Southampton for £38 million last summer and impressed with a string of strong performances, despite the club's relegation from the Premier League.
West Ham's Financial Rebuilding
The sale of Fernandes will be the highest ever made by a Championship club. West Ham, who lost £104.2 million last year, are poised for a rebuild after falling into the second tier. Daniel Kretinsky, who is due to become the club's largest shareholder after agreeing to buy a portion of the Gold family's shares, is expected to inject fresh capital. However, the club is still expected to lose Netherlands winger Crysencio Summerville, who is a target for United and Chelsea. Aston Villa, Everton, Liverpool, United, and Chelsea are monitoring Jarrod Bowen, but West Ham are desperate to keep their captain. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jean-Clair Todibo are also likely to leave.
