Manchester United are plotting to avenge Tottenham Hotspur's signing of Mateus Fernandes by targeting one of their transfer targets. Spurs have all but pipped United to the West Ham United midfielder, having agreed an £85 million bid for the former Southampton star. United had agreed personal terms with Fernandes, but refused to match Tottenham's offer.
United's Transfer Woes and Revenge Plans
United also missed out on Sandro Tonali, who is heading to Tottenham in a £100 million deal. Now, United are looking to sign Crysencio Summerville, a Tottenham target who has agreed personal terms with the north London club. According to Sky Sports, United have made Summerville their number one left-wing target and have held exploratory talks with West Ham, who value him at over £50 million. Additionally, United are "making checks" on Morocco World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi, an £85 million Arsenal target, as reported by Sky Sports.
Midfield Still a Priority
Despite these moves, midfield remains United's absolute priority. They have all but signed Ederson from Atalanta but have yet to unveil him. With Casemiro departing and Manuel Ugarte suffering a serious injury, United are short on midfielders. Aurelien Tchouameni is described as United's dream signing, but his high fee and status at Real Madrid make a deal difficult. Other options include Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund and Fulham's Sander Berge.
Data-Led Approach Bears Fruit
Last season, United finished third in the Premier League after overhauling their transfer approach. Director of football Jason Wilcox and director of recruitment Christopher Vivell adopted a data-led strategy, prioritizing Premier League-proven stars. This proved successful with signings like Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha, who all impressed as United secured a top-three finish.
