West Ham ‘handed Mateus Fernandes boost’ as Southampton plot replacement swoop
Southampton are preparing to part company with Mateus Fernandes amid West Ham’s interest in the creative midfielder.
West Ham are battling Atletico Madrid to sign Fernandes, who was a key player for the Saints last season.
Even though Southampton struggled to adjust to the Premier League last term, the 21-year-old notched three goals and six assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
Fernandes’ exploits for the Hampshire club in the top flight suggest that he is too good to remain with Will Still’s men in the Championship.
Southampton eye Coventry City star amid West Ham interest in Fernandes
Amid West Ham’s interest in his services, Fernandes scored for Southampton as they beat Northampton 1-0 in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday, 12 August.
The former Sporting man’s strike against the League One side provided a timely reminder of his attacking prowess.
Meanwhile, the Daily Telegraph’s Mike McGrath revealed via X on 12 August: “Southampton in talks with Coventry over deal for Jack Rudoni.
“Next two days crucial for deal to be struck for 24-year-old midfielder.”
If Still’s side sign Rudoni, they should be content to part company with Fernandes, thanks to West Ham’s advances.
Rudoni can excel for Saints amid interest in Coventry star
Losing Fernandes to West Ham could be a major blow for Southampton, especially amid Premier League interest in star man Tyler Dibling.
| Jack Rudoni stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 45 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 12 |
Like Fernandes, Dibling was a standout player for the St Mary’s side last season, as his direct dribbling style caused problems for top-flight defenders.
However, signing Jack Rudoni from Coventry would majorly soften the blow of losing the Portugal Under-21 international to West Ham.
Rudoni proved to be one of the best creative midfielders in the Championship last season, notching nine goals and 12 assists in 43 second-tier appearances for the Sky Blues.
The former Huddersfield Town man’s efforts helped Frank Lampard’s men reach the playoffs last term, where they suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Sunderland in the semi-finals.
Rudoni’s performances for Coventry show that he could be a real asset for Southampton, who can offer him the chance to play alongside Adam Armstrong.
Armstrong has been one of the best Championship strikers in recent seasons, and should be able to effectively link up with the Sky Blues ace.
Meanwhile, iconic commentator Ian Darke has weighed in on the Hammers’ interest in Aston Villa star Jacob Ramsey in a West Ham Zone exclusive.