Manchester United are looking increasingly likely to lose one of their priority transfer targets this summer.
The Red Devils have spent months tracking Mateus Fernandes, but the race now appears to be slipping away from them.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Tottenham Hotspur are in “advanced talks” to sign Mateus Fernandes after identifying him as one of their top targets.
West Ham United want £85 million to sanction his exit, more than double what they spent to sign him from Southampton a year ago.
Fernandes was reportedly eager to move to Old Trafford but INEOS have shown no interest in being dragged into an expensive bidding war.
The Hammers are unlikely to be swayed by sentiment and will almost certainly favour the highest bidder.
United were previously considered one of the frontrunners for Fernandes. That situation could change dramatically if Spurs submit an official offer close to the £85m valuation.
The 21-year-old wants to return to the English top flight after West Ham suffered relegation last season.
He considers United captain Bruno Fernandes his footballing idol and wants to play at Old Trafford.
However, he may have to agree personal terms with Spurs if they are the only club willing to meet the asking price.
INEOS now have two options left. One option would be to abandon their cautious approach and significantly overpay for Fernandes.
The alternative is to redirect their attention to other high-level midfield targets. Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Carlos Baleba, Alex Scott and Adam Wharton all remain under consideration.
Real Madrid are reportedly open to selling either Tchouameni or Camavinga as they look to create room for another creative midfielder.
That situation could provide United with a rare opportunity to recruit a proven elite-level performer.
The club have also been closely monitoring Baleba, Scott and Wharton since before the summer transfer window opened.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com