West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is expected to attract significant transfer interest this summer, with former Hammer Joe Cole warning that "clubs will be circling" for the Portuguese international. The 21-year-old has been linked with potential moves to Manchester United and Liverpool in recent weeks, according to widespread reports, though no formal offers are known to have been made.
Fernandes has emerged as a standout performer in a difficult season for West Ham, who are fighting to avoid relegation from the Premier League. The midfielder has contributed three goals and three assists in the league this campaign, playing a pivotal role in a recent run of form that has seen Nuno Espirito Santo's side lose just one of their last five matches. With four games remaining, West Ham sit two points above the relegation zone.
The player joined the Hammers from Southampton last summer for a reported fee of €46 million, having suffered relegation with the Saints during the 2024-25 season. His adaptation and performances in a deeper midfield role have been widely praised, with his ability to control the tempo proving crucial in West Ham's survival bid. Cole, who made 187 appearances for the club, described Fernandes as a "proper player" and a "complete" midfielder in an interview with GOAL.
Cole suggested that Fernandes would ideally be the cornerstone of West Ham's future project should the club retain its Premier League status. "If West Ham get over the line and they survive in the Premier League, he's going to be one that they'll build the team around in the future," Cole said. The speculation comes at a key moment for Fernandes, who is also hoping to secure a place in Roberto Martinez's Portugal squad for the upcoming World Cup in North America, having made his senior debut in April.
For West Ham, retaining their top-flight status is the immediate and overwhelming priority, with crucial fixtures against Brentford, Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Leeds United to come. Any serious consideration of Fernandes's future is likely to be deferred until after the season's conclusion. The potential interest from clubs like Manchester United and Liverpool underscores the rapid development of a player who has become integral at the London Stadium in a short period.
