The Premier League season is fast approaching, with the first fixture taking place at Anfield Stadium on August 15. Meanwhile, the EFL Championship has already kicked off. However, transfer business is still ongoing, with over two weeks left of the window, and many clubs are still in desperate need of more players. West Ham United have now had a bid rejected for Mateus Fernandes, from Southampton.
West Ham United Bid Rejected for Star Valued Similar to Romeo Lavia
Mateus Fernandes Regarded as Southampton’s Best Performer
David Ornstein, of The Athletic, has revealed that West Ham have bid £30 million, including add-ons, for Fernandes. However, Southampton have “rejected [the bid] immediately”. It was “considerably short” of their valuation, and Saints did not even offer a counter-proposal. The midfielder was a stand-out in their abysmal relegation, and (if he stays) he will be a key player in their fight for promotion.
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Fernandes is “valued similarly” by Southampton to Romeo Lavia, who they sold to Chelsea for £58 million two summers ago. However, Mark McAdam reports that they are asking West Ham for a fee close to £50 million, though they do not want to sell. Talks are continuing between the clubs, though “it remains to be seen” whether a second bid will be made.
Where Will Mateus Fernandes Fit in at West Ham?
The Hammers have largely played with a 5-3-2 in pre-season, with three flat midfielders. Fernandes has often played as a more advanced midfielder, so he may be fitting in a bit deeper than he is used to at the St Mary’s Stadium. However, his creative talents will still surely be utilised when providing service for starman Jarrod Bowen, who loves to run off the shoulder of the last defender.