Official photo of Mateus Fernandes holding West Ham scarf following his £38m transfer signing from Southampton, credited to West Ham United/Getty Images.
Credit: © West Ham United / Getty Images
West Ham United have officially completed the signing of Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes from Southampton on a five-year contract for a reported £38 million fee.
West Ham Complete £38m Mateus Fernandes Signing on Five-Year Contract
West Ham United have officially announced the signing of 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes from Southampton, with the club confirming a five-year contract has been agreed. While the transfer fee remains officially undisclosed by both clubs, media reports suggest the deal is worth £38 million guaranteed with potential add-ons of £4 million, bringing the total package to £42 million.
The Portugal U21 international expressed his enthusiasm about the move, stating: “I’m very happy to be here. I’m very excited to play for West Ham… I want to try to play football, enjoy football.” The signing represents a significant investment in West Ham’s midfield, particularly amid uncertainty surrounding Lucas Paqueta’s future and following the team’s challenging start to the season under Graham Potter.
Southampton stand to make a substantial profit on the deal, having purchased Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon for just £15 million approximately one year ago. Reports indicated that Fernandes had successfully completed his medical examination and personal terms negotiations before the official announcement was made.
West Ham’s coaching staff have praised Fernandes’ all-round capabilities, highlighting his defensive contributions and creative abilities as key attributes that attracted the club. His impressive Premier League statistics from the 2024/25 season, particularly in defensive and progressive midfield play, made him a priority target for the Hammers’ recruitment team seeking to strengthen their midfield options.
While the transfer has been completed, several details remain unconfirmed, including Fernandes’ specific salary structure and performance-related clauses within his contract. The midfielder’s integration into Potter’s tactical system and his potential impact on West Ham’s starting lineup will become clearer as the season progresses, with both clubs expected to make additional moves before the transfer window closes.
