It always felt inevitable that the vultures would begin circling West Ham once the club published the worst financial figures in its history.
As many financial experts have predicted, the Hammers appear to be heading towards a summer fire sale regardless of whether Premier League status is retained. The club’s own accounts effectively admit that player sales are the preferred solution, rather than shareholders injecting fresh capital. That inevitably shifts attention towards West Ham’s most valuable assets.
Few, if any, have enhanced their reputation more this season than Mateus Fernandes.
Signed from Southampton in the summer for a fee reported to be between £30 million and £40 million, the young Portuguese midfielder has grown into his role under Nuno, particularly following the departure of Lucas Paquetá. Fernandes has been nothing short of sensational, becoming a driving force in midfield during an otherwise underwhelming and miserable campaign.
Fernandes is probably the most valuable asset in the West Ham squad.
Most Read on West Ham News
Manchester United Lurking as Interest Grows
Unsurprisingly, his performances have not gone unnoticed. Manchester United are reportedly monitoring the situation ahead of a potential summer move. Michael Carrick’s name has been mentioned as an admirer, although it remains unclear whether United’s interim manager will still be in charge at Old Trafford next season.
What is certain is that a player of Fernandes’ calibre will attract elite-level attention, especially given West Ham’s precarious financial position. Clubs will smell a bargain.
However, there is one important detail prospective Premier League suitors should remember. During his time at Southampton, Fernandes’ agent, Jorge Mendes, openly stated that his client’s ultimate ambition was to play in La Liga for Real Madrid.
Wherever his eventual destination lies, it increasingly feels as though West Ham’s gifted midfielder is destined for bigger things — and the club may soon be powerless to stop it.