Tottenham announce £85m Mateus Fernandes signing as shirt number confirmed | OneFootball

Spurs have smashed their transfer record to sign the West Ham midfielder

Tottenham have announced the £85million signing of Mateus Fernandes.

The 21-year-old arrives from West Ham a club-record fee, and signs a six-year contract.

Fernandes will wear the No18 shirt at Spurs, last worn by Giovani Lo Celso.

"When we spoke, it was very special. We look at football in the same way - going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try and win every game.

“I can't wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the club."

Fernandes leaves West Ham just a year on from joining from Southampton in a deal worth £38m.

He made 36 appearances for the Hammers last season, but could not prevent the club from being relegated.

Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi, said: "I've admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play.

"Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level.

“Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments.

“I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development and I'm excited to start working with him."

Spurs are preparing to break their transfer record for the second time in as many days, with Sandro Tonali due at the club’s training ground on Thursday to finalise his £92.5m move from Newcastle.