What is going on with West Ham's move to sign Mateus Fernandes as Southampton wait for development | OneFootball

It was reported earlier this week that West Ham had made a second bid to sign Mateus Fernandes from Southampton

Southampton are yet to receive an improved offer for Mateus Fernandes from West Ham after an initial bid was turned down.

According to Alex Crook, the Saints are still waiting to hear back from the London outfit after their first approach for the midfielder was rejected.

Fernandes has become the subject of intense speculation as we approach the final week of the summer transfer window.

The Portuguese star made the switch to St. Mary’s last year from Sporting in a deal worth a reported £15 million.

West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes pursuit

It has been claimed that West Ham have yet to submit a second offer for Fernandes after their first bid was rejected earlier this month.

It remains to be seen whether the Hammers will continue their pursuit, or if Graham Potter will push for alternative targets.

It had been reported on Wednesday that an improved offer had been submitted, but it’s understood that is now not the case.

The Premier League side have until 1 September to complete any business, meaning they are running out of time to strike a deal with Southampton.

Fernandes has a contract with the Championship side until the summer of 2029, which gives the club a lot of leverage in any further negotiations with West Ham.

It was reported earlier this month that West Ham’s initial proposal to sign Fernandes was worth £30 million.

Mateus Fernandes’ importance to Southampton

Fernandes was a standout player for Southampton last season, even as the team finished bottom of the Premier League table.

The 21-year-old made 36 appearances in the top flight, contributing two goals and four assists.

He has also played in both of Will Still’s first two league games in charge this season, coming off the bench against Wrexham before starting against Ipswich Town last Sunday.

Next up for Southampton is a home clash against Stoke City on 23 August in a 3pm kick-off.

Southampton holding onto Mateus Fernandes would be great business

Southampton have earned a reputation as tough negotiators, and it’s clear West Ham will need to significantly increase their offer to sign Fernandes this summer.

It has been claimed that the Saints value the midfielder at a similar level to Romeo Lavia, who was sold to Chelsea for £58 million.

It’s difficult to see West Ham paying that much for the player, but Southampton hold all the cards due to the amount of time left on Fernandes’ contract.

However, Potter’s side losing 3-0 to Sunderland last weekend may be a wake up call that drives the club to act in the final week of the window.