Arsenal have joined Manchester United in the race to sign Mateus Fernandes, with West Ham potentially forced to sell the midfielder if they are relegated from the Premier League. Fernandes, 21, has attracted interest from several top clubs this season despite West Ham's struggles near the bottom of the table.
Fernandes in high demand
The former Southampton midfielder is also in contention to represent Portugal at this summer's World Cup. His defensive and attacking qualities make him an attractive prospect for elite sides. Manchester United have placed him on a lengthy midfield shortlist that also includes Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Aurelien Tchouameni. Paris Saint-Germain, who Arsenal will face in the Champions League final this month, have been linked, while Atletico Madrid tried to sign him before his £38m move to West Ham last summer.
According to The Times, Arsenal are now interested, and West Ham would have little choice but to sell Fernandes if they go down to the Championship to comply with financial rules. Currently two points from safety, West Ham could be relegated as soon as next Tuesday if results go against them, making a decision on Fernandes' future imminent.
Contract details and versatility
Fernandes signed a five-year contract with West Ham, who paid an initial £38m, potentially rising to £42m. Southampton hold a 15% sell-on clause. His versatility is admired by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, as Fernandes can play in multiple midfield roles. The Gunners are open to selling a midfielder to make room, with Christian Norgaard, who has played only 56 Premier League minutes since joining from Brentford, expected to be available this summer. Meanwhile, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly recommended his namesake to the club's hierarchy.
Fernandes' ambitions
In March, Fernandes outlined his ambitions: 'To play at the World Cup with Portugal, to win the World Cup with Portugal and to be champions of the Premier League. You have to aim high!' A product of Sporting Lisbon's academy, he made his international debut earlier this year, having represented Portugal at every youth level from under-18 to under-21. He came on as a late substitute for Bruno Fernandes in a friendly against the USA, which Portugal won 2-0.
