Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Portugal midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United in one of the biggest transfers of the summer. The 21 year old midfielder arrives after West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League, with reports suggesting the deal is worth a club record £85 million. The transfer highlights Spurs’ determination to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
Fernandes becomes the most expensive signing in Tottenham’s history, surpassing the previous record of £52 million spent on Xavi Simons last summer. The talented midfielder is expected to play a key role in Roberto De Zerbi’s plans as the Italian manager continues rebuilding the squad following a difficult campaign in which Spurs narrowly avoided relegation.
Speaking after completing the move, Mateus Fernandes expressed his excitement about joining the North London club. He revealed that conversations with De Zerbi played a major role in his decision, saying both share the same football philosophy based on teamwork, intensity, determination, and a winning mentality. Fernandes believes Spurs provide the perfect environment for him to continue his development and compete at the highest level.
The Portuguese midfielder began his professional journey through the Sporting Lisbon academy before moving to Southampton in 2024. He later joined West Ham, where he made 72 Premier League appearances and scored five goals. His consistent performances also earned him his senior Portugal debut earlier this year, although he narrowly missed selection for the national team’s World Cup squad.
De Zerbi praised Fernandes for his composure under pressure, technical ability, intelligence, and work ethic. He believes the young midfielder has all the qualities needed to become an important player for Tottenham in the coming years.
Fernandes is the fourth confirmed signing of Spurs’ summer transfer window, with several other high profile arrivals strengthening the squad ahead of the new campaign. Tottenham will begin their Premier League season on August 22 with an away match against Brentford, where supporters are expected to see their new record signing in action for the first time.
