[Official] Manchester United gives up on 'too expensive'; Tottenham spends 175 billion won! Signing of Portuguese prodigy Fernandes: "I came because of De Zerbi"

*This content was translated by AI.

Tottenham has completed its midfield reinforcement by signing promising Portuguese midfielder Matheus Fernandes (21) for the highest transfer fee in club history.

On the 2nd (Korean time), Tottenham announced via its official website that it had acquired Fernandes from West Ham. He will wear the number 18 jersey.

According to local reports, the transfer fee paid by Tottenham to West Ham was 85 million pounds (approximately 174.8 billion won). This marks the highest transfer fee in Tottenham's club history. Although several top clubs, including Manchester United, had initially shown interest, Tottenham ultimately secured Fernandes after accepting the high fee set by West Ham.

Fernandes, who developed at Sporting Lisbon's academy, made his English Premier League (EPL) debut after moving to Southampton for the 2024-2025 season. He played 36 league matches that season as a key player and was named the club's Player of the Year.

He then moved to West Ham last season, where he appeared in 36 league matches, recording 3 goals and 4 assists along with 103 tackles (joint fifth in the league), firmly establishing himself as a first-team regular. Although both his former club Southampton and current club West Ham were relegated to the Championship (second division) for two consecutive seasons, Fernandes' tactical value and performance were highly valued in the market. He made his senior international debut in March during a friendly match against the United States.

In an interview upon joining the club, Fernandes said, "I am very happy to take this next step. Tottenham is a massive club, and the presence of manager Roberto De Zerbi was the most important reason for my decision to join." He added, "I look forward to joining the team, meeting the fans, and giving everything for the club."

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed his expectations: "We have long held Fernandes in high regard. Despite being only 21 years old, he has already gained extensive experience in the EPL and possesses the intelligence to comfortably retain possession and advance the ball even under pressure." Director Jorgen Lang also praised him as "a player who consistently delivers strong performances even in demanding and high-pressure environments," expressing his satisfaction.

Meanwhile, Tottenham is undertaking a major squad overhaul during this summer transfer window. After sequentially signing Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, and Yannick van Haaster to strengthen its defense, the club has further bolstered its midfield by acquiring Fernandes at the highest fee in club history. It is also reported that the acquisition of Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali is imminent.

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*This content was translated by AI.