Roberto De Zerbi is understood to be driving Spurs' interest in the Portugal international. Talks with Fernandes's agent Jorge Mendes are progressing, and Fabrizio Romano confirmed this week that the player is open to both Spurs and Manchester United as potential destinations — with the outcome likely to hinge on which club makes the stronger financial proposal to West Ham United.
United remain firmly in the picture. They have already held talks with West Ham over the player and are described by multiple sources as the frontrunners, with personal terms understood to be at an advanced stage. Spurs' willingness to meet the full asking price is designed to test United's resolve. Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Arsenal have also been linked with the Portugal international.
West Ham paid around £38m to sign Fernandes from Southampton in the summer of 2025 and are seeking to more than double that figure in a sale as they attempt to raise approximately £150m following relegation. The midfielder made 28 appearances last season as the club struggled to adapt to top-flight football.
The failed Tonali bid — worth approximately £80m, according to sources — was Spurs' opening statement of intent after De Zerbi made clear he admires his compatriot. Newcastle United rejected the approach firmly, with Tonali having signed a contract extension and committed his future to the club following his 10-month ban for breaching FA betting rules.
The Fernandes situation puts Spurs in an unusual position — bidding on two £80m midfielders simultaneously in the same window. Whether INEOS at Old Trafford blinks first or De Zerbi's project proves the more attractive proposition will determine one of the summer's most closely watched transfer conclusions.