This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. Mateus Fernandes has been one of the highlights of West Ham's difficult season, as they try to escape the threat of relegation under Nuno Espírito Santo – they are currently the first team below the relegation line, tied on points with Nottingham Forest, managed by Vítor Pereira, and one point behind Tottenham. However, if relegation cannot be avoided, the Portuguese midfielder wants to remain in the Premier League. This assurance comes from the English radio station Talksport. Fernandes was signed from Southampton at the end of the summer transfer window for €44 million and has scored three goals and provided three assists in 27 Premier League matches this season, being an undisputed starter for the Hammers. As a result, he has already attracted the interest of an English giant. The same source indicates that Manchester United is closely monitoring the performances of the Portuguese U-21 international and may pursue his signing in the summer, which would be facilitated if West Ham were to be relegated. If he were to move to Old Trafford, Mateus Fernandes would have the opportunity to play alongside Bruno Fernandes, who has already stated that he is his "idol." Mateus Fernandes faces the peculiar situation of potentially being relegated from the Premier League in two consecutive seasons. The Algarve midfielder left Sporting in 2024 and joined Southampton – the team finished at the bottom of the Premier League, but Mateus Fernandes continued to stand out, being the most utilized player by the Saints that season. In the 2025/26 season, only captain Jarrod Bowen has played more minutes than Mateus Fernandes, who has been praised by Nuno Espírito Santo. "Mateus is having a great season; he is a player who takes on the weight of the team, has personality, character, a lot of quality, and incredible talent," the Portuguese coach recently said to DAZN.
Sporting Mateus Fernandes remains central to this story.
Sporting Mateus Fernandes remains central to this story.
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