Mateus Fernandez during Southampton’s action against Southampton last season (pictured by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
West Ham United are alongside Leeds United, Crystal Palace, Atletico Madrid and Juventus as they pursue a potential transfer move for Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandez.
The talented 21 year old was one of the few bright sparks on the part of a rather awful saint who was relegated to the championship from the Premier League last season.
A source that is familiar with the situation is now providing information Catch off side Fernandez is likely to leave Southampton this summer, with many clubs showing interest.
West Ham is understood to be particularly enthusiastic about Fernandez, with one source confirming that it has “the resources to meet Southampton’s asking price of £20 million.”
Mateus Fernandes’ transfer seems inevitable this summer
Fernandez is certainly too good to play in the championship, so it’s no surprise to see him return to the Premier League soon.
The elegant Portuguese Under-21 International looks like he could become a significant addition to the West Ham side, which requires a massive reconstruction after last disappointing season.
The newly promoted Leeds could also do well to bring in Fernandez if possible. Daniel Fark’s side could be facing a big battle this season.
Still, it appears that Fernandes could even acquire a slightly more attractive move overseas, as Juve and Atletico are understood to be monitoring his situation.
It is worth highlighting that nothing has progressed at any club yet, but the sense among sources close to Southampton certainly has that interest, and it seems highly unlikely that Fernandez will remain in place.
Southampton’s relegation is undoubtedly a big blow. You can also see him lose another big name in the form of a highly rated English mysterious Tyler’s dying.
If both Fernandez and Diling depart for the same window, it’s not easy to rebuild at St. Mary’s Stadium.