West Ham sign Mateus Fernandes to bolster midfield Potter pressure

West Ham United moved late in the transfer window to reinforce a midfield that has come under intense scrutiny, agreeing a deal to sign Portugal under 21 international Mateus Fernandes from relegated Southampton as Graham Potter’s side seek a response to a poor start to the season. The 21 year old was reported to have undergone medical checks in London and to have signed a long term contract on Friday, with fee details variously described as an initial 38 million pounds plus add ons and sell on clauses and by some accounts as a sum in excess of 40 million.

The club made the move as Potter’s team endured three straight defeats across the Premier League and Carabao Cup, including a 5-1 home loss to Chelsea and a late collapse at Wolves that prompted captain Jarrod Bowen to be restrained after he confronted travelling supporters. Bowen later apologised on social media. Potter, who has publicly called for unity, said the squad and supporters were “all in pain” and urged backing as new signings were brought in.

Fernandes, who developed at Sporting and spent last season at Southampton, is seen as a dynamic presence capable of driving from deep and adding control in possession....