Mateus Fernandes has revealed that Roberto De Zerbi was a key reason he chose Tottenham Hotspur over Manchester United, with a conversation with Pedro Porro also influencing the decision.
The 22-year-old Portugal international was long linked with United before Spurs accelerated their interest. Tottenham confirmed his signing from West Ham last month for a club-record £85m.
Why Fernandes chose Tottenham
Asked why he decided to join Spurs, Fernandes told The Athletic: "The desire of playing for a big club, winning games, to fight for the Premier League, for the title."
He added: "The way he [De Zerbi] spoke with me and my family was very important for me. He was calling me every day, so I’m very happy to work with him, and hopefully we can do great things. It was more about (forming a) connection, because my dad and my mum don’t speak English very well. It was more about feelings. He said he would take care of me, that he would be my second dad in England. I’m very happy to work with him."
Fernandes was relegated with Southampton before suffering the same fate with West Ham last season. That did not deter suitors, with Tottenham breaking their transfer record to secure his services.
Porro's role
Fernandes also said a call from former Sporting CP teammate Pedro Porro was crucial in his move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Recalling the exchange with the Spain World Cup winner, Fernandes said: "He called me one day - I didn't answer because I was sleeping — he said, in Portuguese, 'Come on Mateus, you need to play with us, we want you. It was me that told the manager to bring you.'"
"Then when everything was done, I spoke with him a bit about the club, the mentality in the team, the team-mates as well. He's an important player. He's one of the best right-backs in the world. He's a top guy."
Manchester United's response
After missing out on Fernandes, Manchester United signed Andrey Santos for £48m from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans in a £35m deal from Aston Villa. The club could still add a third midfielder before the transfer window closes on September 1, with Aurelien Tchouameni linked.
