Premier League rivals Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have launched parallel bids for midfield reinforcements in a frantic start to the summer transfer window. United have made a formal enquiry about West Ham’s 21-year-old Portugal international Mateus Fernandes, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also circling the rising star valued at £80 million.

United’s interest in Fernandes comes amid reports of a £70m initial offer, though the Hammers have set a firm £80m asking price. The 21-year-old’s agent confirmed a potential move could be finalised within weeks, with a release clause triggering at £85m. Meanwhile, United’s pursuit of Atalanta’s Ederson has reached advanced stages, though the two clubs remain divided over the Brazilian’s £75m valuation.

Tottenham, meanwhile, have shifted focus away from Roma’s Paulo Dybala, who won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, and are now prioritising two younger options. The club is preparing a £50m bid for Middlesbrough’s 23-year-old English midfielder Hayden Hackney, a player whose contract expires in 2026 but includes a £50m release clause. Forest’s interest has intensified after Hackney’s standout performance in last weekend’s Championship play-off final.

Tottenham’s strategy reflects a broader shift toward rejuvenating their squad under new manager Ange Postecoglou, with the club expected to offload up to six senior players to fund incoming transfers. The north London side are also monitoring Atletico Madrid captain Cristian Romero, though the Argentina international has privately expressed interest in joining Diego Simeone’s side for a second spell.

Fenerbahce have entered the race for France international Randal Kolo Muani, currently on loan at Tottenham from Paris Saint-Germain. The 27-year-old forward, who netted 15 goals last season, has attracted interest from multiple Süper Lig clubs, though Spurs are reluctant to part with him before his loan expires. Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, 26, is also set to leave Selhurst Park after several Premier League clubs tabled bids, with Aston Villa and Newcastle United leading the chase.

1. Tottenham’s summer agenda — Finalise Hackney deal while exploring options for Dybala and Romero.
2. United’s financial play — Secure Fernandes or Ederson to bolster midfield depth before next season.
3. Forest’s next move — Compete with Spurs for Hackney or pivot to alternative targets like Middlesbrough’s Hayden Coulson.

In goal, Tottenham are considering a move for Benfica’s Ukrainian goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, 24, as first-choice Hugo Lloris nears the end of his contract. The club has identified Trubin as a long-term successor, with talks expected to intensify once his valuation—reportedly £45m—is agreed. Meanwhile, AC Milan sporting director Igli Tare has confirmed veteran Croatia midfielder Luka Modric, 40, will remain at the club for another season, ending speculation about his future.

The transfer window has opened with unparalleled urgency, as clubs scramble to address weaknesses before the August deadline. With Fernandes, Ederson, and Hackney at the forefront, the coming weeks will determine whether midfield becomes the defining battleground of the summer.