Arsenal are planning a raid on West Ham United to bring Mateus Fernandes to the Emirates Stadium in the summer transfer window, according to a report.
The Gunners have one of the best midfield departments in the Premier League, with manager Mikel Arteta having a lot of options. Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze are the players for Arteta in the middle of the park.
However, it seems that Arsenal remain keen on adding to their squad and have identified Mateus Fernandes as a potential target for the summer transfer window.
According to Sports Boom, Arsenal view Fernandes as an ideal piece for their rotation. Fernandes joined West Ham from Southampton in the summer of 2025 and is under contract at the London club until the summer of 2030.
The 21-year-old Portuguese midfielder has scored three goals and given three assists in 28 appearances for the Hammers this season. While Fernandes joined West Ham only last summer, there is a very good chance that he could leave if the London club get relegated to the Championship. According to Sports Boom, West Ham want €65 million to €75 million, approximately £65 million, for Mateus Fernandes.
Arsenal view Mateus Fernandes as ideal rotation option
Arsenal already possess considerable depth in midfield. The addition of Fernandes would enhance their options further. The Portuguese youngster offers versatility and technical quality that fits Arteta’s system.
His ability to operate in multiple midfield roles makes him an attractive target for rotation purposes.
West Ham’s asking price reflects their reluctance to sell a player who joined only last summer. However, relegation could change their position significantly. Arsenal would be well-placed to capitalize on any financial pressures West Ham face if they drop to the Championship.
Liverpool and Manchester United join Fernandes race
Arsenal, though, are not the only club that have taken a shine to Fernandes. Sports Boom has claimed interest in the West Ham youngster from Manchester United, with Manchester City also monitoring the Portuguese gem.
Manchester City are said to be closely tracking the player’s physical development, while Atletico Madrid and AC Milan are keeping tabs on him, too.
West Ham relegation could open transfer door
Earlier this month, Liverpool FC journalist David Lynch revealed Liverpool’s interest in Fernandes. Lynch said on Anfield Index: “He looks a good player, and they’re in a bit of trouble at the moment. He’s only 21 and he just looks a real talent, and suited to the Premier League as it is now as well.”
“I don’t doubt he’s someone they’re kind of keeping an eye on and it’s all about what needs come up for Liverpool, do they need in that position, and does someone leave that opens up an opportunity? But if they do, they do watch these things and we’ve seen with the Xherdan Shaqiri deal, the Georginio Wijnaldum deal that they will look to these clubs that go down, and if they’ve got players they like they will go for them.”
Arsenal face competition from several major clubs for Fernandes.
Liverpool’s history of targeting relegated clubs for quality players gives them experience in these situations. Manchester United and Manchester City add further complexity to any potential deal.
The coming months will determine whether Arsenal can navigate this competition successfully and secure a player Arteta views as ideal for his squad rotation needs.
