Sport: Fernandes

Manchester United's refusal to match Tottenham's 85 million pound bid for Mateus Fernandes means the club must now explore alternative options to strengthen their midfield.

Mateus Fernandes has pinpointed Roberto de Zerbi as the decisive factor in his decision to join Tottenham, with the 21-year-old midfielder revealing that the head coach's football philosophy proved instrumental in his move to north London.

Manchester United have embarked upon a pivotal summer as they seek to capitalise on the momentum generated under Michael Carrick during the latter half of last season.

Tottenham Hotspur have reached an agreement to sign Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United in a deal worth £85 million, beating off competition from Manchester United to secure what will become their club-record transfer.