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

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2 July 2026

Tottenham have officially announced

Mateus Fernandes

as a new signing this morning, with the player speaking out on his decision to join.

The talented young Portugal international has made the move from West Ham to

Spurs

after a saga linking him with a host of other top clubs.

Perhaps most notably, it seems that

Manchester United were one of Fernandes’ main suitors

, with the Red Devils described by ESPN’s Rob Dawson as having pushed hard for the deal.

However, as per the X post from Dawson below, it seems Man Utd were not convinced that Fernandes was desperate to make them his first choice, unlike with some of their other recent signings…

–

Tuesday, 30 June 2026

This is perhaps now confirmed by Fernandes’ own words to

Tottenham’s official site

today as he made it clear just how eager he was to play under the club’s manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Discussing his move to

, the 21-year-old the club’s website: “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.

“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.”

De Zerbi is certainly very highly regarded in the game, having done an impressive job at other clubs in recent times, most notably in the Premier League with Brighton.

The Italian tactician should find it easier to implement his style of play at

with a quality young midfielder like Fernandes coming in.

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

Evening Standard

Tottenham announce the arrival of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United

SportsView

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

Fernandes praises De Zerbi after completing move to Spurs from West Ham

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