West Ham United boss Graham Potter applauds the fans during pre-season.placeholder image
West Ham United boss Graham Potter applauds the fans during pre-season. | Getty Images
West Ham United are looking to improve in the midfield area this summer
It must be difficult to know what to think for West Ham United fans this summer. The Hammers finished 14th last season in a very lacklustre campaign but their disappointing performances were often overshadowed by more high-profile underperformers such as Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
It is easy to forget that West Ham spent over £120million in summer 2024 and were predicted as dark horses to challenge for Europe. But Niclas Fullkrug flattered to deceive and Crysencio Summerville spent half of the season out injured, with a rejuvenated Aaron Wan-Bissaka the only new signing to truly earn himself much praise in his debut campaign for the Irons.
West Ham prepare bid for Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes
One of the only shining lights in a relegation campaign which was unforgettable for all the wrong reasons, 21-year-old Southampton star Mateus Fernandes may return to the Premier League this summer with West Ham seen as prime candidates for his signature.
Reported by The Guardian, the Hammers are preparing a £30m bid for the Portugal U21 international as they attempt to convince him of a move to the London Stadium. The report continues that West Ham are targeting signing two midfielders this summer, with Potter looking to add ‘energy and creativity’ in what remains of the transfer window. Fernandes is viewed as their ‘top target’, with Aston Villa ace Jacob Ramsey and Lille’s Ngal’ayel Mukau amongst other options being assessed by the club.
West Ham are said to have tracked Fernandes for over a year, considering making a move before he signed for the Saints for £15m from Sporting CP last summer. He is expected to cost around £30m as the Championship club aim to make a strong profit on the young midfielder.
Fernandes ‘misses winning feeling’ - but Saints may reject opening bid
He said: "[Southampton] have good players, a good coach, and the stadium atmosphere is very nice. So, yes, it's a dream come true but I miss the feeling of winning."
Recent reports by Daily Echo journalist Alfie House on X, relayed by GiveMeSport, suggest that it may take multiple attempts for the Hammers to secure the signing of Fernandes, as Southampton could reject their opening bid once it is lodged.
House said: “Understand West Ham’s opening offer for Mateus Fernandes will not even be considered by Saints. It’s not close to the region required to make a move happen in total fee or payment terms.
“Thing to consider is that Saints invested £15million into Mateus Fernandes a year ago because they believed they knew how much he could eventually be worth. That's why the opening fees suggested, under £30m, don't make any sense for a player with four years left.”
Continue Reading