Man Utd to make first bid for Mateus Fernandes confident he will sign for two reasons

Manchester United are planning to make their first bid for Mateus Fernandes this week as they remain favourites to sign him with a basic agreement in place - but face fierce competition.

The 21-year-old is emerging as one of the most wanted players due to his experience of the Premier League and his performances last season.

West Ham are keen to cash in on him after being relegated but United are worried in it turning into an auction with the price going ever higher.

Also in the running are Tottenham who are understood to have agreed personal terms with the midfielder who would be happy for a move to the London neighbours.

But Spurs would struggle to meet the asking price of at least £80 million in one go and are looking at a layered package.

United are ready to make their opening offer now but it will be below £80 million

And United have two aces up their sleeve which they believe will ensure Fernandes signs for them.

They will be taking part in Champions League football next season and the West Ham midfielder is also a huge fan of Bruno Fernandes.

And United are also on close terms with the player's agent Jorge Mendes and have been speaking with him over the past few months.

Personal terms for Fernandes won't be difficult including wages and length of contract with a basic agreement in place.

But West Ham are awaiting a formal bid from United and are not planning to settle below their asking price.

The Hammers signed Fernandes from Southampton for a package worth just north of £40 million just last year and want to make a sizeable profit.

That is why they are looking to double the amount they splashed out for him.

Meanwhile transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has also revealed that Liverpool have made enquiries about Fernandes but they have not made any specific offer.

"I will tell you something that was not so public in the recent days and weeks," Romano said on the Born 'N Red YouTube channel.

"Liverpool made a call two weeks ago to understand the situation Mateus Fernandes at West Ham, to understand the price and conditions, but they didn't return with any bid or any official conversation.

"But they made a call two weeks ago, I can guarantee that. Tottenham and Manchester United are busy with a deal, so there are so many clubs involved.

"The player is going to be expensive, more than £85million. It means Liverpool are working on midfielders."