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Callum O'Connell

Fri 13 March 2026 7:15, UK

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Nuno Espirito Santo is determined to keep hold of his best players this summer despite West Ham United entering a precarious financial situation.

The Hammers have reported £104million worth of losses in the last year and will likely be forced to sell players in an attempt to balance the books.

This comes as they remain in the Premier League relegation zone, although they are hopeful of survival with just goal difference separating them from Nottingham Forest.

Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Nuno will be “fuming” if he is made to let his key players leave, in particular Mateus Fernandes.

The midfielder has been one of the Irons’ most important players this season and will be crucial to their progress, but could be sold in a busy window for West Ham.

Nuno Espirito Santo hopes to block Mateus Fernandes exit

Brown warned Football Insider last month that West Ham could be forced to sell Fernandes with clubs keeping a close eye on his situation.

As one of the Hammers’ most impressive players this season, he has attracted high-profile interest, but Nuno would prefer to sell others ahead of him.

“Fernandez has been so impressive for West Ham,” Brown told Football Insider.

“There’s going to be a lot of interest in him because the top clubs are always looking at those who might go down for any players who might be available.

“West Ham are in a situation where they might be forced to sell players because of their finances.

“But Nuno Espirito Santo will be fuming if they let Fernandez go, I bet he can name five players who he’d sell before letting the midfielder leave.

“He’s such a crucial part of his plans, the same with Jarrod Bowen, if they stay in the Premier League the only way they can progress is by keeping them.

“Hopefully he will have the support of the board on that, but you never know with West Ham.”

Update on Jarrod Bowen’s future amid exodus fears

Alongside Fernandez, Jarrod Bowen remains one of the most important players at West Ham, and Nuno is hopeful of keeping him at the club long-term.

Despite likely being forced to sell big-name players this summer, the Hammers are keen to keep hold of their best, with fringe players more likely to be moved on.

This comes after Brown told Football Insider that Bowen has no plans to leave West Ham despite their disappointing season and hopes to help them to survival.

Relegation on top of their ongoing financial crisis could change the Hammers’ situation, but should they remain in the Premier League, they will remain hopeful.

Nuno has guided his side into a strong position in the season’s closing stages, as well as an FA Cup quarter-final, and is hoping to have the board’s support.