Mateus Fernandes has completed his move to West Ham United in a deal worth over £40 million from Southampton. The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder signed a five-year contract, becoming the Hammers’ third-most expensive signing in history.
Mateus Fernandes Signs Five-Year West Ham Deal
Mateus Fernandes officially joined West Ham on Friday 29th August 2025 for an initial fee of £38 million plus £4 million in add-ons. The Portuguese under-21 international penned a five-year contract running until summer 2030.
West Ham beat several Premier League clubs to secure Mateus Fernandes’ signature after monitoring him throughout the summer. The midfielder underwent his medical at Rush Green training ground before completing the move.
His transfer makes him West Ham’s sixth summer signing under Graham Potter. He joins Kyle Walker-Peters, Max Kilman, Crysencio Summerville, Niclas Füllkrug, and Guido Rodríguez at the London Stadium.
The deal includes a 15% sell-on clause favouring Southampton if West Ham profit from a future transfer. This protection ensures the Saints benefit if Mateus Fernandes develops into a more valuable asset.
Record Transfer Fee Reflects West Ham’s Ambition
Mateus Fernandes becomes West Ham’s third-most expensive signing behind Lucas Paquetá (£51m) and Max Kilman (£47m). The fee surpasses Sébastien Haller’s previous £45 million record from 2019.
Southampton originally signed the midfielder from Sporting CP for £15 million in July 2024. The Saints achieved a remarkable £25 million profit after just one season despite suffering relegation.
His transfer represents significant investment in West Ham’s midfield rebuild following their disappointing start. He addresses urgent needs for energy and creativity in Potter’s system.
The Portuguese international attracted interest from Newcastle United and Brighton before choosing West Ham. His decision reflects confidence in Potter’s project and the club’s Premier League ambitions.
Southampton Career Highlights Strong Potential
Mateus Fernandes made 46 appearances for Southampton across all competitions during 2024-25. He scored four goals and provided seven assists despite the club’s relegation struggles.
The midfielder featured in 36 Premier League matches, starting 30 games for the struggling Saints. He accumulated 2,922 minutes of top-flight experience whilst learning English football.
His defensive statistics impressed despite Southampton’s defensive frailties throughout the campaign. The Portuguese recorded 2.75 tackles per 90 minutes, ranking in the Premier League’s top 26% for midfielders.
Mateus Fernandes also contributed 5.54 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, placing him among the league’s top 31%. These numbers demonstrate his work rate and pressing intensity.
Graham Potter Praises New Signing’s Qualities
West Ham manager Graham Potter expressed delight at securing Mateus Fernandes ahead of Sunday’s match against Nottingham Forest. The coach believes the midfielder will become a fans’ favourite at the London Stadium.
Potter highlighted Fernandes’ “quality, character, desire and personality” as key attributes for West Ham. The manager praised his Premier League experience despite Southampton’s disappointing season.
The coach views relegation as a learning opportunity that strengthened Mateus Fernandes’ character. Potter believes difficult experiences help young players develop resilience and determination.
Potter confirmed the midfielder is eligible for Sunday’s Premier League fixture at Nottingham Forest. He could make his debut after training with his new teammates.
Technical Analysis Reveals Complete Midfielder
Mateus Fernandes offers versatility across multiple midfield positions including central midfield and number 10. His technical skills enable West Ham to maintain possession more effectively.
The Portuguese possesses an excellent long-range shooting ability adding another attacking dimension. Mateus Fernandes created numerous chances for Southampton despite their offensive struggles.
His passing range and vision help unlock tight defensive blocks that troubled West Ham last season. The midfielder’s creativity addresses Potter’s need for a player who can “take the game by the scruff of the neck”.
Mateus Fernandes combines attacking flair with defensive responsibility, tracking back consistently throughout matches. This work rate fits Potter’s high-intensity pressing system perfectly.
International Career Continues Developing
Mateus Fernandes represents Portugal at under-21 level, earning multiple caps for his country. He progressed through every Portuguese youth category since under-15 level.
The midfielder featured in Portugal’s under-21 European Championship campaign during summer 2025. Mateus Fernandes played three matches, accumulating 231 minutes of tournament experience.
His consistent performances at youth level suggest eventual senior international recognition. Portugal’s deep midfield talent means Mateus Fernandes must maintain high club standards.
The under-21 experience provides valuable preparation for Premier League pressure situations. International football helped develop his mentality and tactical understanding.
West Ham’s Midfield Transformation Project
Mateus Fernandes addresses West Ham’s urgent need for youthful energy in their ageing midfield. Players like James Ward-Prowse, Guido Rodríguez, and Tomáš Souček all exceed 30 years old.
His arrival alongside Soungoutou Magassa from Monaco strengthens Potter’s options significantly. The double signing provides competition and tactical flexibility throughout the season.
Mateus Fernandes is expected to replace Ward-Prowse’s creative responsibilities whilst adding defensive intensity. His mobility and pressing suit Potter’s tactical approach better than static playmakers.
The Portuguese midfielder’s age profile aligns with West Ham’s strategy of building for sustained success. Long-term contracts protect the club’s investment whilst securing future value.
Immediate Impact Expected Against Nottingham Forest
Mateus Fernandes trained with West Ham on Friday ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premier League fixture. Potter must decide whether to include him in the starting eleven immediately.
West Ham desperately need points after losing their opening three matches across all competitions. Mateus Fernandes’ energy could provide the spark Potter’s team requires.
The midfielder’s Premier League experience means no adaptation period for English football’s intensity. His Southampton background provides insight into relegation battles and pressure situations.
Mateus Fernandes offers Potter tactical options including 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3 formations. His versatility allows the manager to adjust systems based on opposition requirements.
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