West Ham United have opened talks with Southampton over a summer transfer deal for Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to talkSPORT.
West Ham manager Graham Potter wants reinforcements in the middle of the park at the London Stadium club.
The ‘exceptional’ 21-year-old Saints star with a ‘brilliant mentality’ has been on their radar all summer.
The Hammers have now formalised their interest in Fernandes, and Southampton are likely to demand in excess of £30 million for his services.
The former Sporting CP midfielder is a ‘top’ player, proving himself in his debut campaign in the Premier League for Southampton.
The West Ham target weighed in with three goals and six assists in 42 appearances across all competitions last term, and his versatility could be huge for Potter.
Fernandes is primarily a central midfielder but he can also play in an attacking role and on both wings due to his technical ability on the ball.
He loves to dribble and can both hold on to the ball well and contribute defensively due to his physicality and strength.
Southampton would love to hold on to such a player as they eye an immediate return to the Premier League at the end of next term, but a good deal could tempt them into doing business with West Ham.
Remaining in the top-flight would appeal to the Portuguese, but the Hammers are likely to face fierce competition for his services from other suitors.
West Ham also have Lille midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau on their radar and Potter will hope to sign at least one player in the position before the end of the summer transfer window.
Fernandes would be a perfect option as he has already proven himself in the Premier League, and he has the potential to establish himself as a key player in the West Ham midfield in the long-term.
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