FOOTBALL
By Eishna Rawat
Posted on May 17, 2026 12:00 am | Updated on May 16, 2026 5:20 pm
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The race for Mateus Fernandes has truly exploded. Arsenal have entered the hunt for the West Ham midfielder. The 21-year-old is now one of the hottest names in European football. Manchester United, PSG, and Atletico Madrid all want him too. This summer is going to be a fight.
Why Arsenal and Mateus Fernandes Make So Much Sense?
Mikel Arteta wants to reshape his midfield. That much is clear. The Arsenal boss favours technically gifted and versatile players. Mateus Fernandes fits that profile perfectly after a strong debut season in the Premier League with West Ham.
Arteta has long admired how Pep Guardiola built dominant teams at Manchester City. He has followed that blueprint at Arsenal ever since. The Mirror notes that Arteta is inspired by Guardiola’s transfer approach. He’s targeting younger, versatile midfielders who can fit into tight tactical systems from day one.
Martin Zubimendi has barely had a rest this season. Also, there is no realistic substitute for Declan Rice either. Mateus Fernandes could walk straight into Arteta’s plans. He gives Arsenal depth and control, two things they badly need heading into next season.
Also Read: Declan Rice beats Bruno Fernandes in shock FWA result
West Ham Brace for an Inevitable Mateus Fernandes Exit?
A sale looks very likely, whatever happens to West Ham. The Hammers signed Mateus Fernandes from Southampton on a five-year contract last summer for £38 million, according to Transfermarkt. But their Premier League status is still in danger, and that changes everything.
If West Ham go down to the Championship, financial rules would likely force them to sell. According to The Times, Southampton also has a 15% sell-on clause from the original deal. West Ham currently wants £80 million. But that figure is hard to defend if they get relegated.
The Times also reported that before his move to West Ham, ten clubs were chasing Mateus Fernandes, including Atletico Madrid. That level of interest has not gone away. PSG are now in the mix too. The queue for his signature is only getting longer.
Also Read: UEFA make major Champions League change favouring Arsenal
Arsenal vs Manchester United: Who Gets Fernandes?
As per a report from Strettynews, Manchester United moved first. INEOS made early contact with the player’s camp, and the signs were good. Mateus Fernandes is said to admire Bruno Fernandes deeply. Next season, United will be playing Champions League football. That is some serious pull.
But Arsenal are serious rivals. The Gunners could be open to offers for Christian Norgaard as well. He has struggled for playing time since his time at the club. Moving him on would free up funds and a squad spot for Mateus Fernandes.
Mateus Fernandes for West Ham in 2025/26,as per Transfermarkt:
Competition Matches Goals Assists Minutes
Premier League 34 3 3 2846
FA Cup 2 1 0 225
EFL Cup 1 1 0 71
Arsenal sees the bigger picture here. His arrival could hand Arteta the midfield pair he has always wanted alongside Rice. That is a big deal for a club still chasing a first Premier League title in over two decades. He is not walking in as a guaranteed starter. But he would strengthen the squad. He would give Arsenal control in games that need patience. That matters more than it sounds when you are fighting for a title.
Mateus Fernandes has settled well in England. He enjoys the football here. A move to Arsenal keeps him in the Premier League and puts him at a club built to win. That is hard to turn down.
West Ham are bracing for a painful farewell. They found a gem, but may not be able to keep him. With Arsenal now firmly in the race, the Mateus Fernandes saga is only just getting started. It is going to run all summer long.
Also Read: Christian Norgaard retires after Denmark heartbreak
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Eishna Rawat
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