Newcastle United are eyeing a summer move for Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes, journalist Olly Hawkins has revealed.
The Magpies are believed to be admirers of the 20-year-old starlet, who is expected to depart Southampton following their relegation from the Premier League.
Fernandes only joined the Saints last summer in a £15m deal from Sporting Lisbon and has been a bright spark in a dismal season at St Mary’s, scoring two goals and providing three assists in the league.
Newcastle have a history of snapping up relegated talent and could look to repeat the trick once more, having signed Nick Pope, Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes in recent seasons.
Newcastle Eyeing Mateus Fernandes
His qualities appeal to Eddie Howe’s side
Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes in action against Manchester United
According to Hawkins, Fernandes’ summer exit from Southampton looks highly likely, although the south coast club are expected to demand considerably more than the £15m they paid last August.
The Saints are in a strong negotiating position as the 'ultimate Premier League midfielder's' contract runs for another four seasons, until June 2029.
Newcastle are said to be admirers of Fernandes’ qualities, including his technical ability and versatility, as the Portuguese starlet is able to play in a number of midfield roles.
Newcastle are anticipating a slight squad reshuffle after the season, with the likes of Callum Wilson, Jamaal Lascelles, Jamal Lewis and goalkeepers Mark Gillespie and John Ruddy all out of contract.
The Magpies are believed to be in the market for a new centre-back and a right-sided winger, while they could also look to add another striker to complement Alexander Isak.
Eddie Howe’s side are third in the Premier League with two games to play and next face Arsenal away on Sunday.
Mateus Fernandes' Southampton Stats (2024/25 Premier League)
Games
Goals
Assists
Goal-creating actions
Minutes played
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Statistics courtesy ofFbrefandTransfermarkt. Correct as of 1 4 -05-25.