Fernandes Makes United Preference Clear as Red Devils' First Bid Knocked Back

Manchester United's initial approach for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes has been rebuffed, with the club's first bid turned down on Tuesday. Yet the Red Devils appear to have a significant advantage in the race for the Portuguese talent—Fernandes has reportedly instructed his representatives that he would prefer a switch to Old Trafford over a potential move to Tottenham.

United's midfield overhaul is gathering pace following their agreement to sign Atalanta's Ederson, who is understood to have undergone his medical in New York on Sunday. But the recruitment drive doesn't end there. The club is eyeing at least one more midfielder, potentially two, plus reinforcements at left-back and left-winger before the window closes.

Fernandes has emerged as the next target on United's shopping list, with their original top priority Elliot Anderson seemingly destined for Manchester City instead. However, the Hammers midfielder is attracting serious interest from across London. Tottenham, under Roberto De Zerbi, have already made their intentions known. The Spurs boss wants both Fernandes and Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, signalling an ambitious summer at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

According to reports, Real Madrid are also monitoring the situation. When Jose Mourinho arrived at the Spanish capital ten days ago, he met with the board and included Fernandes among the names under consideration. It's a three-way tussle for a player very much in demand.

Fernandes is keen on joining United and his camp has been in direct contact with the Red Devils' negotiating team. West Ham, though, are holding firm on their valuation. The Hammers initially wanted £100m but are expected to settle around £85m. United's opening gambit came in below that figure, which explains why it was swiftly rejected. The expectation is that negotiations will continue in earnest over the coming days, with both sides working towards a middle ground.

The player's preference for United should give the club a meaningful edge in their pursuit, even if Tottenham's early moves in the market suggest they won't go quietly.