After almost falling, Tottenham signs midfielder from rival for record fee
Tottenham announced this Thursday (2) the signing of Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes, who was at West Ham. According to the British press, the transfer was completed for around 85 million pounds (around R$590 million), becoming the biggest purchase in the history of the London club.
Spurs beat competition from Manchester United to sign the 21-year-old player.
"I'm very excited about this next step. Tottenham is a huge club and coach Roberto De Zerbi was a key part of my decision," Fernandes said in a statement.
"When we spoke, it was something very special. We see football in the same way: entering the field as a strong team, with fight and intensity, trying to win every game."
We are delighted to announce the signing of Mateus Fernandes
https://t.co/wYggXgYt7j pic.twitter.com/KdIEuPFyET
- Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 2, 2026
"I can't wait to get started, meet the fans, meet everyone at the club and give my all for this shirt," he added.
Mateus Fernandes arrived at West Ham in 2025, coming from Southampton, in a deal worth more than 40 million pounds. Last season, he played 38 games in the Premier League.
Revealed by Sporting's youth teams, the Portuguese also spent time on loan at Estoril, where he played 35 games and helped the club reach its first cup final in 80 years. In 2024, he was traded to Southampton for around 15 million pounds.
The midfielder debuted for Portugal's senior team in a friendly against Mexico in April. The sale comes amid the reshaping of West Ham's squad, relegated to the Championship after finishing the last edition of the Premier League in 18th place, ending a stay of more than a decade in the English elite.
Tottenham remains active in the transfer window. Mateus Fernandes is the team's fifth reinforcement for next season, which will be led by Roberto De Zerbi. Among those hired is also the experienced goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka.
Spurs finished the last Premier League in 17th place, just two points above the relegation zone.
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Source: CNN