Leeds United are still in search of a number of players in multiple areas during the final weeks of the transfer window.
The problem Leeds United face is that the very best talent is also wanted by other elite clubs, as showcased perfectly by the Igor Paixao transfer saga.
That includes some Championship targets, too. Mateus Fernandes shone for Southampton in the Premier League last season after the 20-year-old’s move from Sporting CP last summer.
Following the Saints’ relegation, and at one stage earlier in the window, it was claimed Leeds would make Fernandes a ‘priority’ signing this summer. However, the Portuguese midfielder is not short of interest.
West Ham and Atletico Madrid register interest in Leeds target Mateus Fernandes
It’s been claimed that both Leeds and Crystal Palace are interested in Fernandes’ services, although it’s also reported that Southampton officials joked about Leeds’ Fernandes valuation behind the scenes as well.
Fernandes arrived on the south coast for £15 million from Sporting Lisbon, and now Southampton want £30 million to double their profit this summer.
Juventus are also keeping tabs on Fernandes as well. However, they aren’t the only European giant with an interest, though. Even though Leeds fans think Fernandes would be a ‘really good fit’, it won’t be a simple deal to complete.
If Leeds’ interest firms up in the coming weeks in the form of a bid, then they will be contending with West Ham United and Atletico Madrid.
The Sun’s Jack Rosser claims West Ham have asked about the midfielder but not been given encouragement over a move, but that Atleti are “considering” making their play for him before the deadline.
Mateus Fernandes’ comments on remaining with Southampton in the Championship
Fernandes previously gave his view on staying at Southampton when asked about staying at the club in the second tier. Fernandes gave an interesting answer to the Saints’ club media.
“I have a contract with Southampton, so I think so,” Fernandes said.
“The next season will be different, I hope. Maybe we can play much better and win many, many games.
“We will work for that, train for that, and I think we can do much better than this year.”
However, it’s always difficult when teams of a certain calibre come in for a player, which is why the talented midfielder could yet join Leeds, Juventus, Atleti or someone else before the transfer deadline.
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