1 in, 1 out: Arteta ready to unleash new midfield with Fernandes targeted to replace Norgaard | OneFootball

Arsenal are reportedly showing an interest in the potential signing of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes to replace Christian Norgaard.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is a fan of Premier League-proven players and of those who are versatile enough to fill different roles, with Fernandes perfectly fitting the bill.

The talented young Portugal international has shone for West Ham this season, showing promise in a defensive midfield role or a more advanced role, and the Times now claim he’s on Arsenal’s radar.

With relegation to the Championship now looking increasingly likely for West Ham, ironically because of Fernandes’ glaring miss for the Hammers against Arsenal in their game last weekend, it could be that the 21-year-old is more likely to be available this summer.

Mateus Fernandes transfer being eyed by Arsenal

The report from the Times has also named Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain as potential suitors for Fernandes, but it’s easy to see him being a good fit for Arsenal.

The former Southampton man might also be keen to stay in England after adapting well to the style of football here, in what is generally regarded as the most competitive of the major five European leagues.

Arsenal also clearly have the need for a player of this profile as Arteta has shown that he very obviously doesn’t have much trust in Norgaard, who has barely played this season despite only joining from Brentford less than a year ago.

Fernandes could have a role in Arteta’s side straight away as AFC surely need more depth in that department, with Martin Zubimendi barely getting a rest this season, while there’s also no realistic substitute for Declan Rice.

Even if Fernandes is relatively inexperienced, he has shown he has quality to strengthen Arsenal’s depth in an important position, and he probably wouldn’t cost too much if West Ham are relegated.