Ben Jacobs has revealed that Manchester United have initiated “formal discussions” with West Ham United to secure the signature of midfielder Mateus Fernandes, despite reports suggesting that Tottenham Hotspur had already finalised a deal for the player this summer.

The Red Devils have already set up an agreement to bring in Ederson from Atalanta, with the Brazilian international expected to officially complete his move once the World Cup concludes.

However, Manchester United’s recruitment plans do not stop there. Under the guidance of INEOS, the club intends to add at least one additional midfielder, a left-back, and a left-winger before the transfer window closes.

While the club has been linked with several midfielders over recent weeks, Fernandes of West Ham has emerged as a primary target. Initially, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson was viewed as the preferred option, but his price tag proved excessive, particularly after Manchester City agreed to pay a record £116 million for the England international.

According to Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, Manchester United have renewed their pursuit of Fernandes. He reported on Saturday that the Premier League giants are “back in” for the Portuguese international.

Moretto shared on X: “Manchester United are back in the chase for Mateus Fernandes. In recent hours, new contact has been made with the player, and the Red Devils are ready to increase their contract proposal to persuade him to sign. Manchester United also plan to hold direct negotiations with West Ham. Tottenham remain in contention and have made a strong push recently, but United are now trying to move ahead.”

Meanwhile, talkSPORT journalist Ben Jacobs dismissed suggestions that Tottenham had already secured Fernandes, confirming that Manchester United are now engaged in “formal talks” with West Ham to finalise the transfer.

Jacobs explained on talkSPORT: “At the time of recording, Manchester United remain in discussions with the player and with West Ham United, while Tottenham are also still involved.

“There have been some rumours in the past 24 to 48 hours suggesting that a deal with Spurs is done, but that’s not the case.

“Tottenham have been in advanced talks with the player, but Manchester United’s negotiations with him began before Spurs entered the race – and the situation could still change quickly.

“As of now, Fernandes has not made a final decision on which club he intends to join, and there’s still the possibility of other clubs entering the picture.

“Keep in mind that Arsenal showed interest earlier in the summer before the transfer window opened, while Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid also appreciate the player.”

Jacobs further noted that Manchester United and Tottenham are awaiting a clear indication from Fernandes about his preferred destination. “Both clubs are looking for some clarity from the player himself – once he signals a strong preference, it will strengthen their negotiating position with West Ham United,” he said.

However, Jacobs added that West Ham are in no hurry to sell: “Even though West Ham have been relegated, they have received a financial boost of £90 million. Because of that, there’s less pressure to generate the £150 million they initially planned to raise through player sales.”

He continued: “A few weeks ago, there was speculation that West Ham might need to conduct a fire sale, but now, with their improved financial situation, they’re in a much stronger position to hold firm on their £80–85 million valuation for Fernandes.”