Man United have refused to rule out signing a highly-rated and cheaper alternative to West Ham star Mateus Fernandes amid competition from Tottenham, according to reports.

United's search for another central midfielder has continued despite already completing a deal for Ederson from Atalanta earlier in the window.

The Brazilian arrived after establishing himself as one of Serie A's most consistent midfielders and was viewed as a major addition to United's engine room.

However, recruitment in that area has not stopped there.

United have remained active in the market as they assess further options capable of strengthening Michael Carrick's squad, and one player who has emerged as their top target is Fernandes.

The former Southampton midfielder has been repeatedly linked with a move to Old Trafford in recent weeks, and some reports have suggested that Fernandes has already agreed personal terms to join United.

The Portugal international has seen his valuation climb significantly following an impressive rise in English football.

Current reports indicate West Ham would demand around £85 million before considering his departure.

That figure appears to have complicated matters and ensured discussions have dragged on without any breakthrough.

As United continue to evaluate their options, another name has emerged.

Man United tease signing Felix Nmecha in talks with agents

According to TEAMtalk's Graeme Bailey, Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha has been offered to a number of leading clubs through representatives.

Man United are among those who have been approached regarding a possible move, and his report states that United have not dismissed the possibility of pursuing the Germany international after speaking to intermediaries.

Nmecha's situation has attracted considerable attention across Europe.

Although he recently signed a new contract with Dortmund until 2030, clubs have reportedly been informed that a transfer could still be possible.

Bailey's report suggests a fee in the region of £52 million could be enough to open serious discussions, and that valuation places him significantly below the level currently being discussed for Fernandes.

As a result, Nmecha is viewed as a potentially cheaper alternative if United decide the West Ham midfielder is too expensive.

The 25-year-old is no stranger to English football.

Before moving to Germany, he spent more than a decade in Man City's academy system.

Although he never established himself in City's senior side, he developed a strong reputation before departing for Wolfsburg in 2021.

His performances in the Bundesliga eventually earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund two years later, and since then, he has become an increasingly important player for both club and country.

Interest in Nmecha has risen further during the World Cup.

The midfielder was one of Germany's standout performers during their emphatic 7-1 victory over Curacao. He found the opening goal in that match and played a key role in Germany's dominant display.

That performance only added to growing interest from clubs monitoring his situation, with Barcelona and Real Madrid among the elite sides who are fans of Nmecha.

The former Wolfsburg star made 42 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund last season, and scored three goals across 10 appearances in the Champions League.

Julian Nagelsmann has raved over Nmecha's 'world-class' ability too, so he could be one to watch.