Manchester United are refusing to be drawn into a transfer bidding war for West Ham United midfield star Mateus Fernandes.
Speculation has intensified over the past week amid claims that Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to outbid United to secure the Portuguese youngster.
Reports have even suggested that Spurs are closing in on an agreement on personal terms with the highly-rated midfielder.
However, the reality behind the scenes appears very different.
According to a reliable report, Man United are in ongoing talks with the Hammers to sign Fernandes.
INEOS are fully aware of Spurs’ interest in Fernandes, but firmly believe that they are the most advanced club in negotiations.
There is internal confidence that a deal can be completed, especially with Fernandes preferring a move to Old Trafford.
West Ham are in urgent need to sell
There is interest from Tottenham in the 21-year-old but it is difficult to see Fernandes choosing a move to North London unless United unexpectedly withdraw from negotiations.
Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Arsenal have also tracked his progress closely, yet all three clubs are understood to be aware of his desire to move to Old Trafford.
There are several reasons why the latest Tottenham speculation should not cause panic among United supporters.
The Portuguese international considers Bruno Fernandes his footballing idol and would relish the opportunity to play alongside him at the Theatre of Dreams.
The emotional pull of that prospect should not be underestimated.
There is also a strong possibility that some of the recent noise is being generated to increase pressure on INEOS and force a higher bid.
West Ham are currently seeking a fee close to £80 million for their prized asset.
The Premier League and EFL accounting deadline falls on June 30, leaving clubs with limited time to balance their books.
The Hammers are actively exploring player sales over the next 10 days to avoid potential financial complications after their relegation to the Championship.
The Red Devils have no intention of matching the current valuation and would prefer to complete a deal closer to the £60m mark.
The coming days could be decisive in determining the future of Fernandes.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com