Mateus Fernandes has made quite a name for himself with his impressive performances for West Ham, and a host of top clubs in England are now after his signature. According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester City are keen on signing the Portuguese youth international, as they look to replace Bernardo Silva.
However, signing the 21-year-old won’t be easy as the Hammers are reluctant to lose him, and they will also face stiff competition from rivals Liverpool and Manchester United.
On the back of an impressive season with Southampton, Fernandes made the move to West Ham last summer. He managed to establish himself as a key figure at the London club in no time and has only gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months.
While he prefers playing as a central midfielder, the 21-year-old is comfortable enough to take up any role in midfield. He has been involved in 28 matches for the Hammers and has even contributed towards six goals. With West Ham struggling to survive in the top flight, multiple top clubs are now looking to prise him away.
Manchester City are the most serious suitors for his signature, as they have already established the first lines of communication with the Portuguese midfielder during the winter window. With Bernardo Silva’s contract running out and his departure very likely, City have identified Fernandes as an ideal replacement.
With his contract running until 2030, the Hammers do have significant control over his future. However, in case of relegation, City will be able to sign him for a bargain release clause. His ball-carrying abilities, along with his vision, make him a perfect fit for City’s style of football.
The Manchester-based giants will face stiff competition from United and Liverpool. As far as the Red Devils are concerned, they are closely monitoring his situation and would love to have him in their ranks, with Casemiro leaving after the end of the season.
Meanwhile, the Reds seek more competition for Ryan Gravenberch in the centre of the park, and Fernandes certainly has all the qualities to feature in the holding role. Given the kind of maturity he has shown, all three clubs are pushing hard for his signature.
