West Ham Transfer Exclusive
Claret & Hugh have been informed this evening that interest from Bayer Leverkusen will have no impact on West Ham’s pursuit of one of their top transfer targets.
Glasgow Rangers central defender Emmanuel Fernandez has been repeatedly linked with a move to the London Stadium over the past month and is believed to be highly admired by Hammers boss Nuno Espírito Santo.
However, in the last 48 hours, reports have emerged that both Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are interested in signing the imposing centre-back, who is expected to be available this summer.
Emmanuel Fernandez poses with his rangers kit
Fernandez is wanted by West Ham
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West Ham Transfer Plans on Hold
When Claret & Hugh spoke to a well-placed transfer source — someone involved in multiple Premier League deals over the years — the response was blunt.
“It doesn’t matter who else is in for Fernandez. West Ham can’t bid for anyone because they don’t know which division they’ll be in next season.”
When asked whether there was any planned transfer activity at the club, the answer was even more stark:
“Only outbound transfers.”
There does appear to be genuine interest from West Ham in Fernandez, who was born in England. But the reality is clear — if Bundesliga giants decide to make their move, there is currently little or nothing the Hammers can do to compete.
It’s yet another example of how uncertainty over Premier League survival is beginning to impact decisions both on and off the pitch. Presumably, the club would like to make the transfer of Axel Disasi permanent but as for now, everything is on hold.