PREMIER League side West Ham have reportedly tabled an improved offer for Saints key man Mateus Fernandes.
The Hammers have returned for the 21 year old Portuguese ace after an initial £30million bid was rejected by Saints, without consideration.
Graham Potter's side have been heavily linked with Fernandes this summer as they seek to attacking spark to their midfield.
[The Guardian](https://x.com/JacobSteinberg/status/1957917213421408538) have reported that West Ham have launched a fresh bid for Fernandes, in conjunction with offers for Barcelona's Marc Casado and Chelsea's Andrey Santos.
Mateus Fernandes won the Daily Echo Player of the Year award last season. _(Image: Southampton FC/Matt Watson)_ READ: ['Next step' - Eckert reveals aims at Saints in first interview as U21 boss](https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25372672.next-step---eckert-reveals-aims-saints-first-interview-u21-boss/?rel=cl_mra)
West Ham fell considerably short of Southampton's valuation for Fernandes with their first bid, with the St Mary's side deeming the fee and payment terms unsatisfactory.
On the same day that the bid was rejected, Fernandes fired Saints into the Carabao Cup second round by scoring the winner against Northampton Town in a 1-0 victory.
The former Sporting midfielder also played a key role in Southampton's equaliser against Ipswich Town on Sunday, having started the 1-1 draw at Portman Road.
Fernandes remains under contract for a further four years, with Saints not feeling under pressure to sell him at a lower price despite relegation.