West Ham know what they must do to beat Atletico to perfect Lucas Paqueta replacement
West Ham United now know exactly what they must do to beat Atletico Madrid to the signing of Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes.
The Portugal youth international was one of the few shining lights in Saints’ miserable 2024/25 campaign, and his statistical output suggests he could be a perfect replacement for Lucas Paqueta — who has been linked with a West Ham exit.
However, the Hammers face competition from Atletico Madrid for Fernandes’ signature, with Football Insider transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke exclusively revealing that the Spanish giants are ‘preparing a formal move’.
Of course, talks between West Ham and Southampton have already begun and have been revealing for the London side.
West Ham learn Mateus Fernandes asking price
According to Sky Sports (12 August), West Ham have seen a £30m bid rejected for Fernandes, who has four years left to run on his current contract at St. Mary’s.
Despite playing in the Championship, it’s understood Saints have no intention to sell Fernandes unless an offer closer to £50m is tabled.
As of yet, it’s unknown whether or not West Ham intend to improve their offer for Fernandes.
It’s also unclear of Atletico Madrid will pay that sort of fee — though Los Rojiblancos have the added financial weight of Champions League qualification, while they could raise funds through the sale of Conor Gallagher.
Man City pushing for Paqueta, but will the dominoes fall?
Hammers midfielder Paqueta has been linked with a move to Manchester City this summer.
And West Ham’s push for Fernandes could hinge on whether or not they part ways with their Brazil international.
The Londoners are also demanding a £50m fee for their midfield star, and despite the vast riches available to Man City, it’s thought they would be very reluctant to pay that sort of price for Paqueta.
Football finance expert Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider that he’d be ‘amazed’ if City paid that sort of price for a player who turns 28 at the end of August.
There appears to be a stack of dominoes waiting to fall in midfield this summer, with the moves of Fernandes, Paqueta and Gallagher all potentially affecting each other.
But the finances involved mean there’s a very real chance the dominoes sit untouched on the table, with everyone carrying on with the tools already at their disposal.