West Ham sign Southampton midfielder Fernández

 

WEST HAM SIGN SOUTHAMPTON MIDFIELDER MATEUS FERNANDES IN £40M+ DEAL

The 21-year-old has penned a five-year contract at the London Stadium, making him the club’s third-costliest signing behind Lucas Paquetá (£51m) and Sébastien Haller (£45m).

Fernandes only joined Southampton from Sporting CP last year for £15m but quickly impressed, registering 46 appearances, four goals and seven assists across all competitions. His performances earned him recognition as one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders, prompting West Ham to make their move.

“I’m really proud to sign for West Ham,” Fernandes said. “This is a massive club with big ambitions. The project, the supporters and the atmosphere at the stadium made this the perfect next step for me.”

The transfer is seen as a major boost for manager Graham Potter, who has come under scrutiny after a difficult start to the season. The Hammers have lost all three of their opening fixtures, including a 5-1 defeat to Chelsea and a 3-0 setback against Sunderland, leaving Potter in need of fresh inspiration.

West Ham are also close to finalising a deal for Soungoutou Magassa from Monaco, with the 21-year-old midfielder expected to cost around £17.3m.