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Manchester United are reportedly determined to keep their pursuit of West Ham United’s midfielder Mateus Fernandes alive, as the club explores new ways to secure his signature despite mounting competition.

The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder has become a key target for the Red Devils as they look to strengthen their midfield this summer. United have already finalised a £39 million deal for Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson, and Fernandes is seen as the next piece in their rebuilding project at Old Trafford. Despite suffering relegation battles with both Southampton and West Ham, Fernandes’ individual performances have made him one of the most sought-after players in the transfer window.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City are also monitoring Fernandes’ situation, while Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have expressed interest in bringing him abroad.

Manchester United were initially viewed as favourites to land the player after Fernandes gave his approval to a potential move to Old Trafford. However, West Ham’s steep asking price — rumoured to be around £80 million after signing him for £42 million last summer — exceeds INEOS’s valuation, which is closer to £60 million.

This has opened the door for Tottenham Hotspur, who have reportedly indicated their readiness to meet West Ham’s price. Spurs have also held discussions with Fernandes’ representatives, and the player is said to be open to staying in London with a move to North London.

Since INEOS assumed control of football operations at Old Trafford in 2024, the group has been determined to avoid the costly transfer mistakes of previous regimes. Their focus has been on securing value-for-money transfers rather than overpaying for talent.

Earlier this summer, Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson was identified as the prime option to succeed Casemiro. However, the Midlands club demanded more than £100 million for the 23-year-old England international, pricing United out of a deal.

As a result, United shifted their focus to Fernandes, though Manchester City eventually paid £116 million for Anderson, making him one of the Premier League’s highest earners. The current scenario mirrors that situation, with Tottenham attempting to hijack United’s plans, but sources suggest INEOS are determined to avoid a repeat.

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, United — led by sporting director Jason Wilcox — have reopened talks with Fernandes’ agent Jorge Mendes. The club is reportedly prepared to offer improved contract terms to persuade Fernandes to reject Spurs’ advances and will soon hold “direct talks” with West Ham regarding a potential deal.

Moretto notes that Tottenham have “pushed hard” in recent days to find a breakthrough, yet United are “trying to regain the initiative” after initially leading the race for several weeks.

This summer’s transfer market for midfielders has become one of the most competitive in recent memory. With Manchester City’s record £116 million move for Anderson setting a new financial benchmark, clubs across the Premier League are facing inflated prices for top midfielders.

Even if Manchester United aim to stand firm on their budget for Fernandes, alternative targets such as Bournemouth’s Alex Scott would likely command a similar or higher price. Therefore, the decision to re-engage with the West Ham star and fend off Tottenham’s challenge reflects a pragmatic understanding of current market conditions.