Mateus Fernandes confirms key reason he joined Tottenham after Manchester United transfer battle

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Evening Standard

2 July 2026

Both

Spurs

and Man Utd had made the Portuguese midfielder a priority summer signing

Mateus Fernandes

has revealed that

Roberto De Zerbi

was the key reason he joined

Tottenham

for a club-record £85million fee from West Ham.

Fernandes is the latest player to credit De Zerbi’s influence as being pivotal to why he joined Spurs, with the 21-year-old becoming the club’s fifth signing of the summer.

Spurs have been aggressive in the summer transfer window,

and are also set to complete a deal worth up to £100m for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali

De Zerbi has been at the centre of these plans and has played a huge role in convincing the likes of Fernandes and Tonali to join Spurs despite successive 17th-place finishes in the Premier League.

Speaking after his arrival was officially announced, Fernandes praised De Zerbi’s influence and said they shared the same ideals about football.

"I'm very excited for this next step.

is a massive club, and the head coach was a key part of why I have decided to join,” Fernandes said.

Tottenham Hotspur FC

"When we spoke, it was very special. We look at football in the same way - going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try and win every game. I can't wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the club."

On Fernandes, De Zerbi praised his ability to perform under pressure and his Premier League experience, which has been a consistent theme of Spurs’ recruitment this summer.

"I've admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play,” De Zerbi added.

"Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level. Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments.

“I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development, and I'm excited to start working with him."

Tottenham announce the arrival of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United

SportsView

Tottenham announce £85m Mateus Fernandes signing as shirt number confirmed

Tottenham seal deal for Mateus Fernandes as summer spending spree continues

The Independent

Mateus Fernandes confirms key reason he joined Tottenham after Manchester United transfer battle

Mateus Fernandes reveals "key part" of why he joined Tottenham over Man United

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