New twist emerges in race to sign Mateus Fernandes from Southampton - West Ham have fresh competition | OneFootball

Mateus Fernandes has been linked with a move away from Southampton this summer

Atletico Madrid have joined the race to sign Mateus Fernandes from Southampton this summer.

According to Football Insider, the Spanish giants are set to compete with West Ham for the midfielder’s signature.

Fernandes is facing an uncertain future at St. Mary’s with the club now competing in the Championship this season.

The Portuguese player joined the Saints last summer after they earned promotion to the Premier League, but a 20th-place finish led to an immediate return to the second division.

Atletico Madrid eye Southampton star

It was reported earlier this week by the Guardian that West Ham are readying an initial offer for Fernandes.

But it is now understood that the London outfit face stiff competition from Atletico Madrid, with speculation over the midfielder ramping up.

It is believed that Diego Simeone’s side will have the edge over the Hammers in the race to sign the midfielder.

It has been claimed that any deal could cost around £30 million, which would be double what the Saints paid for him 12 months ago.

Fernandes was a key figure for the Hampshire outfit last season, featuring 36 times in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old also came off the bench last weekend for Will Still’s first game in charge as manager, with the side overcoming Wrexham to win 2-1.

Southampton’s summer business

Southampton have made a number of additions this summer, including the likes of Damion Downs and Joshua Quarshie, who both featured in Saturday’s win at St. Mary’s.

The Saints have also seen players like Kamaldeen Sulemana, Jan Bednarek and Paul Onuachu depart the club since suffering relegation from the Premier League.

Fernandes has a contract with the Championship side until the summer of 2029, giving them leverage in any potential negotiations.

Southampton have until 1 September to conclude any remaining business before the market shuts.

Atletico Madrid opportunity would be huge for Fernandes

A move to Atletico Madrid would be a massively exciting step for Fernandes to take in his career at just 21.

He was a standout player for Southampton last year despite their poor form in the Premier League.

At £30 million or so, it could prove very smart business by the Spanish side to get this deal done, as he’s someone with a lot of potential.

West Ham could also be a good fit under Graham Potter, but the chance to also compete both under Simeone and in the Champions League might be too good to turn down, if a deal can be agreed with the Saints.