Tottenham Hotspur have announced the £85 million signing of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, smashing their previous transfer record. The 21-year-old midfielder has signed a six-year contract and will wear the No.18 shirt, last worn by Giovani Lo Celso.
Fernandes Expresses Excitement
Fernandes said: "I'm very excited for this next step. Spurs is a massive club and the head coach was a key part of why I have decided to join. When we spoke, it was very special. We look at football in the same way - going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try and win every game. I can't wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the club."
De Zerbi Praises New Signing
Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi said: "I've admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play. Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level. Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments. I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development and I'm excited to start working with him."
Record-Breaking Spending Spree
Fernandes leaves West Ham just a year after joining from Southampton in a £38 million deal. He made 36 appearances for the Hammers last season but could not prevent the club from being relegated. Spurs are preparing to break their transfer record for the second time in as many days, with Sandro Tonali due at the club’s training ground on Thursday to finalise his £92.5 million move from Newcastle.
