West Ham send out transfer message louder than any signing amid Mateus Fernandes latest
West Ham United are remaining firm as Mateus Fernandes continues to be linked with an exit.
The 21-year-old is coming off the back of a positive campaign in claret and blue, despite relegation.
The Hammers arguably let the one-cap Portugal international down as Nuno Espirito Santo failed to totally turn things around.
He was certainly able to help the midfielder improve after coming in and describing him as "something special" at the London Stadium.
It appears that various other sides have seen that and want to secure his signature ahead of the new campaign.
Fernandes continues to be linked with a departure, but the Irons have been clear in their stance moving into the summer window.
West Ham won't rule out Mateus Fernandes stay
There is no shortage of exit links for the ex-Southampton man, even after back-to-back Premier League relegations.
The East Londoners picked him up after his drop with the Saints and there are many higher level outfits who want him nearly 12 months later.
That proves just how good he has been and allows the Irons to set demands at whatever level they wish.
Sky Sports reported on Tuesday that West Ham value Fernandes at around £80million and are in no rush to sell.
The Hammers aren't ruling out the possibility of the 21-year-old sticking around to feature in the Championship with the hope of earning promotion at the first time of asking.
That sends a clear message to the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain that the E20 club won't be pushed aside easily this summer.
And the fact there is a chance Fernandes could actually stay in East London provides serious hope of an instant return to the top flight.
West Ham in perfect position to land blockbuster fee for Fernandes
There are plenty of frustrations being aimed towards the claret and blue side for their part in this transfer saga.
Fans of "bigger" clubs seem to believe West Ham should just roll over and allow the Portuguese talent to leave for a cut-price fee after relegation.
That just isn't the case and in reality, the increasing levels of interest only allow them to charge more and hold out for longer.
Real Madrid are also set to help them with that after spanish outlet AS reported that Jose Mourinho wants Fernandes at the Bernabeu when he takes over as manager.
That would see Los Blancos join Man United, Arsenal and PSG in the race to land his signature.
Considering the Hammers are in no rush to sell and are even happy to keep him, it will take a monster offer for them to sell the midfielder as they send a message to the elite sides interested.