West Ham sign Southampton midfielder Fernandes

Mateus Fernandes, a midfielder from Southampton, has been signed by West Ham for more than £40 million.

The Portuguese international, age 21, becomes West Ham’s third-biggest signing, trailing only Sebastien Haller ($45 million) and Lucas Paqueta ($51 million), signing for a five-year deal.

The Saints have since made a sizable profit after one year thanks to Fernandes’ £15 million move to Southampton from Sporting in 2024.

He contributed seven assists and four goals for Southampton in 46 appearances.

Fernandes expressed his excitement at West Ham’s inclusion.

“I believe it’s a significant step for me,” she said. A large, massive club, indeed. The entire project, the city, the stadium, etc.

Under-pressure Hammers manager Graham Potter, whose side have lost their first three games of the season in all competitions, should take advantage of the decision.

In their first Premier League game, they were defeated 3-0 by newly promoted Sunderland, who then lost to Chelsea 5-1, and lost to Wolves in the Carabao Cup second round.