Aston Villa are reportedly among the clubs who are monitoring any developments with the future of Southampton playmaker Matheus Fernandes.
The West Midlands are currently preparing for their final Premier League game of the season knowing that victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford may lead to Champions League qualification.
However, with some sort of European football secured for 2025-26, Unai Emery and the club's recruitment team can afford to start assessing options in the market.
With several young talent likely to leave the three relegated teams, interest is expected to increase in players of that profile over the coming weeks.
According to Football Insider, Fernandes is someone that is on the radar of several teams in England's top flight.
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Which clubs want Portuguese prospect?
As well as Villa, the likes of West Ham United and Leeds United are also said to be contemplating trying to add the 20-year-old to their respective squads.
Despite his age, Fernandes has been provided with 33 starts and two substitute outings in the Premier League during 2024-25, contributing three goals and two assists.
He has been deployed across midfield and the forward line since his arrival from Sporting Lisbon on a long term contract until 2029.
The Saints paid in the region of £15m for the youngster and would expect to recoup at least that fee if they were to give the green light to a sale.
Fernandes won the club's Player of the Season award for this season, allegedly leading to a £25m price-tag being placed on his services.
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What is best solution for Fernandes?
Having arrived at St Mary's with game time at Sporting Lisbon and a season of Primeira Liga at Estoril Praia already under his belt, Fernandes is not necessarily at a point where regular football needs to be guaranteed next season.
As such, making the jump to a team such as Aston Villa or West Ham United may make more sense than joining a likely relegation candidate in Leeds.
Being a Portugal Under-21 international, there is clear faith in his ability on the international scene, and Fernandes will want to eventually make the step up to the senior ranks.
Although Southampton are unlikely to sell if their valuation is not met, Fernandes's future is realistically away from the Saints, even if his current employers have to consider a loan with option to buy to recoup as much money as possible.
Darren Plant
