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Tottenham Hotspur have finalized the acquisition of midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United, splashing out a club-record transfer fee to fend off interest from Manchester United.
Spurs have shelled out a staggering $112 million (£85 million) to land Fernandes, who acknowledged that the opportunity to work under Roberto De Zerbi was a major factor in his decision to make the switch.
"I'm absolutely thrilled about this new chapter," Fernandes said. "Spurs is a huge club and the Head Coach was a significant reason why I chose to come here.
"Our conversation was truly special. We share the same vision of football—taking to the pitch as a united team, with determination and intensity, fighting to win every match. I can't wait to get going, meet the supporters, meet everyone, and give my all for the Club."
Outlining his vision for Fernandes, De Zerbi commented: "I've been a fan of Mateus for quite some time because he blends technical ability with the pressing intensity and tactical awareness that are so crucial to how we want to play.
"Despite being young, he already brings solid Premier League experience and has demonstrated quality and reliability at this level. Mateus thrives under pressure, can carry the ball forward, puts in the hard yards for the team and has the boldness to influence games in tough moments.
"I believe this is the perfect setting for him to keep growing and I'm looking forward to working with him."
Fernandes's Transfer Record Will Not Last Long
Fernandes won't be the only midfielder heading to Tottenham this summer. Spurs have already reached an agreement to bring in Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United in a deal that will once again surpass the club's transfer record.
Tonali, who boarded a flight from Milan on Thursday to complete his move to Spurs, is set to join in a package valued at up to $132.8 million (£100 million)—with the overwhelming majority of that sum guaranteed.
As he prepared to fly out to Spurs, Tonali spoke to Sky in Italy about his upcoming transfer and, much like Fernandes, highlighted the pivotal role played by De Zerbi.
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"De Zerbi was a huge influence in this decision," Tonali said, "and beyond that, it's a lifestyle and family choice after three years at Newcastle.
"De Zerbi deserves enormous credit for this—he pushed for it not just as a fellow Brescia native and a friend, but as a dedicated professional who is fully committed to his work."