West Ham United narrowly survived relegation last season, finishing just above Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League table. But the Hammers are now staring down life in the Championship, with a significant squad exodus expected this summer.
Among those tipped to depart is Matheus Fernandes, whose exit could command a hefty transfer fee. Jarrod Bowen’s situation has also attracted speculation, though his future remains considerably less certain than that of the Portuguese midfielder.
Tottenham are reportedly looking to capitalise on West Ham’s precarious position. As per reports from David Ornstein, Spurs have earmarked Fernandes as a priority target as Roberto De Zerbi continues overhauling his squad ahead of the new campaign.
The Italian boss is said to be eager to bolster his midfield options, with Fernandes and Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali both on his radar. Spurs have additionally been linked with West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville, who turned heads with his displays at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Fernandes Drawing Interest From Europe’s Elite
Fernandes was one of the few bright spots during Southampton’s torrid Premier League season. Having arrived from Sporting CP, he quickly found his feet in English football, catching the eye with dynamic midfield performances throughout the campaign.
Despite being unable to save the Saints from the drop, his displays persuaded West Ham to bring him to the London Stadium — and he has only grown since making the switch.
At West Ham, Fernandes elevated his game to another level entirely, emerging as one of the club’s most influential figures. His contributions proved crucial in their survival battle, but that very form has now made him one of the most coveted midfielders in Europe.
West Ham would dearly love to hold onto him, yet an exit looks increasingly inevitable. Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Arsenal and Real Madrid are all said to be tracking his situation closely.
Tottenham’s entry into the race only adds to the pressure, though it could work in West Ham’s favour — sparking a bidding war that drives up his price tag considerably. Given his performances across the past two seasons, the widespread interest is hardly a shock.
Who Else Could Walk Out The Door?
Even with a desire to hold their squad together, West Ham may find certain departures impossible to prevent. Fernandes and Summerville both generated serious interest after shining in a side that struggled for much of last season.
Bowen, however, could opt to stay put despite interest from outside, continuing as a key presence on the right flank in the second tier.
Uncertainty also surrounds experienced figures Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Konstantinos Mavropanos, both of whom could attract suitors this summer. Meanwhile, young talents Soungoutou Magassa and Mohamadou Kante are beginning to register on the radar of clubs across the continent.
With so much speculation swirling around the squad, West Ham face a hectic window — and the biggest question is who will still be wearing the shirt when the new season kicks off.
