Whilst several of West Ham’s relegated first team squad are actively involved in their World Cup warmups, for others left out or not eligible for the competition, the long summer vacation has already begun. Those now relaxing include Jarrod Bowen – who liked pretty spent at the end of last season – along with other first team regulars Dinos Mavropanos and Mateus Fernandes.
Being the most valuable Hammers asset, Fernandes is already creating a buzz in the transfer world, even ahead of the window opening on 15th June.
A new report today claims that suitors are already jockeying for position in what is likely to become a ‘chess match‘ between buyers. According to caughtoffside.com:
Manchester United are emerging as the strongest contenders. The club views Fernandes as a long-term solution in midfield, with reports suggesting he could play alongside captain Bruno Fernandes. Sources have informed..that Manchester United’s transfer committee has “accelerated talks” with the player’s representatives, and Fernandes himself is said to be attracted by the opportunity to play Champions League football.
Carrick may want Fernandes, but with PSG, Arsenal, Chelsea and several Italian sides lurking it seems there’ll be no simple cheap deal when the window opens. Good news for West Ham’s accountants.
Arsenal remain interested in Fernandes as a replacement for Christian Norgaard. Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid are also monitoring the situation closely. Chelsea and Aston Villa have joined the race, adding further competition, while in Italy, Inter, Juventus, and Napoli are all keeping tabs on the midfielder.
In conclusion, Mateus Fernandes’ future is shaping up to be a chess match between West Ham’s financial strategy and the ambitions of Europe’s elite clubs.
With Fernandes out of Portugal’s national side, there is likely no delay to the start of bidding when the June 15th window opens: Fernandes may be the first of many out of the door this summer but hopefully at least the Hammers can get this one deal right and leverage the huge interest in order to achieve a monumental fee for the gifted young midfielder who will be a huge loss but a necessary price to pay following last month’s relegation.
Sad that we only got to see Fernandes in the C&B for one season. He is going to be a top player and he should go to one of the very best sides in Europe that can develop him and help him get there. To that end we should make sure we get the best price for him especially with all that potential and he showed what he can do once Paq left.
Portugal must have some squad if they can afford to leave him out of the World Cup!
amazing really, played CM for two clubs in 2 years, both relegated.
imagine what he would be worth if he was a success, scored goals and even set a few up….