Graham Potter believes West Ham United have signed a footballer who will give the Premier League strugglers a ‘different dimension’ in Mateus Fernandes.
On the evidence of the last three matches across league and domestic cup, anyone even slightly au fait with the Iberian’s talents will find that hard to disagree with.
West Ham agreed terms with Southampton on a deal worth a reported £40 million earlier this week.
Following a month of haggling, and after two earlier bids allegedly fell short of the Saints’ demands, St Mary’s boss Will Still opened the door for Fernandes’ departure having been informed by the Sporting Lisbon academy graduate that he had his heart set on an immediate return to the Premier League.
And with only three days left before the window closes, Fernandes could not come soon enough for West Ham United or Graham Potter. The phrase ‘better late than never’ comes to mind.
Graham Potter says Mateus Fernandes gives West Ham ‘a different dimension’
Tony Cottee spotted West Ham’s biggest issue almost immediately after the new season kicked off on Wearside.
Watching his beloved Hammers go down 3-0 at newly-promoted Sunderland, the legendary former striker bemoaned a complete lack of ‘athleticism or pace’ in the centre of the park. As one-time West Ham target Habib Diarra ran the show for the hosts, James Ward-Prowse and Guido Rodriguez were left ambling around like an elderly cat batting his paws lazily at a laser pen.
Fernandes, a purposeful, dynamic, box-to-box number eight with his best years ahead of him at just 21, should in theory help provide a solution.
“Mateus is a young player who has made impressive progress in the early part of his career, and we are delighted to have secured his signing,” Potter told the official West Ham website once Fernandes put pen to paper on a five-year contract this Friday morning.
“He gained valuable experience in the Premier League last year with Southampton and is someone we really feel can help improve us and fit into what we are trying to build and develop at the club.
“We believe that his attributes and strengths will bring a different dimension to the squad. And, from speaking to him, I know that he can’t wait to get started here.”
In addition to what Fernandes brings on the pitch, Potter was also impressed by the way the youngster carried himself off it.
“He has shown great maturity and character for someone so young,” the under-fire head coach adds. “And we look forward to seeing his continued progress and impact at West Ham United.”
Fernandes loved his last trip to the London Stadium with Southampton
The London Stadium outfit got a glimpse into the Portugal Under-21 international’s talents back in April.
Mateus Fernandes helped Southampton snatch a draw on their trip to the capital, outshining Lucas Paqueta and Carlos Soler in the process. His positivity in possession, his willingness to grab a game by the scruff of its neck, and his never-say-die spirit were certainly in evidence that afternoon.
“I’ve played against West Ham twice before, including at London Stadium last season. I remember it was a fantastic atmosphere,” Fernandes recalls during his introductory interview.
“I remember when the club won the Conference League, and I know there is lots of history here. It’s great to be able to join such a big club.”
West Ham remain in pole position for Soungoutou Magasasa too, even if Eintracht Frankfurt will not take no for an answer. Another 21-year-old midfielder, Monaco’s Magassa will replace Edson Alvarez while Fernandes is likely to fulfil the duties James Ward-Prowse seems unable to provide these days.
Paris FC starlet Dimitri Colau is London-bound as well, Foot Mercato report.
