Vultures ready to circle Mateus Fernandes as new West Ham transfer approach emerges
West Ham have reignited their pursuit of Southampton star Mateus Fernandes.
Fernandes enjoyed a stellar last season despite Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League, and that has piqued the Hammers’ interest.
Graham Potter‘s side are crying out for an injection of pace and fresh impetus in midfield after the dismal 3-0 loss to Sunderland on 16 August.
The likes of Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez look set to leave the London Stadium, so a deal for Fernandes makes sense for David Sullivan and Co.
West Ham Zone presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
West Ham make new Matheus Fernandes approach
West Ham failed with a £30million bid for Fernandes, but they have made an improved offer, it has been said.
Darke believes that Fernandes could be a solid addition for Potter’s side, as he was the Saints’ standout player last time out as they were relegated to the Championship.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, he said: “I think he is a decent player, he was a player who kept his place all the time in that really awful Southampton side last season.
“It was not down to him, every time I saw them, he got through a mountain of work, and he was the only player in the middle of the pitch who looked like making anything positive happen for them.
“The vultures are going to circle around the relegated clubs and pick out the one or two players who were good enough at the level, I think Fernandes would be someone you would pick out at Southampton.
“Is he going to change the course of their history? No, but he is quite a good option for them to have, and might just give them a little more dynamism in that area that they were lacking so much last season.”
What would Mateus Fernandes bring to West Ham?
Fernandes is primarily a centre midfielder, but he can also thrive in the number 10 role.
The 21-year-old recorded two goals and four assists in 36 top-flight matches last season, which is impressive considering how poor the south coast outfit was.
Strengths:
- Passing ability: Fernandes boasts a brilliant passing range, capable of timing through balls perfectly with great accuracy
- Dribbling: Capable of keeping the ball in tight spaces, and able to evade opposing defenders
- Physicality: Athletic and powerful, can cover ground efficiently and a solid ball-winner with lots of stamina
Weaknesses:
- Decision-making: Can make poor decisions, leaving his side vulnerable to turnovers
- Positioning: Needs work on knowing the right place to be at the right time
- Aerial ability: Does not win a lot of aerial battles
They finished bottom of the division, with just one point more than Derby County’s record low points total.
Given his experience at the elite level and his potential, his signature could be a real coup for the Hammers.
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