“West Ham’s SHOCKING £13M Raid for RED-HOT Star Will Leave Rivals STUNNED as Potter Plans TOTAL DOMINATION!”

West Ham currently have several midfield options, including Guido Rodríguez, Tomas Soucek, Edson Álvarez, and James Ward-Prowse.

However, Rodríguez delivered a mixed debut campaign at the London Stadium, while Lucas Paqueta—though capable of operating deeper—is naturally a more attack-minded midfielder.

Andy Irving is another squad member, but the Scot struggled for regular minutes last season.

According to Football Insider, journalist Brown has reported that new manager Graham Potter is open to strengthening his midfield, with Southampton’s Carlos Alcaraz Fernandes identified as a potential target.

The Hammers may soon make a formal move for the Portuguese midfielder, but they’ll need to act quickly due to growing interest from other clubs.

Brown explained:

“West Ham have been looking at Fernandes from Southampton. There is no shortage of interest in Fernandes, though, so they may have to move quickly if they want to get ahead of these other clubs in for him.

Graham Potter wants to strengthen his midfield, and if Fernandes is an option for them and would fit into his way of playing, it could work for them.”

Fernandes joined Southampton from Sporting CP just last summer and is under contract for another four years. Despite the Saints’ relegation, they are under no pressure to sell him.

Their stance on retaining talent was made clear in the Tyler Dibling saga, and a similar resistance is expected regarding Fernandes. His estimated market value is around £13 million, per Transfermarkt.

The 21-year-old is a natural box-to-box midfielder but can also play deeper or as an advanced playmaker.

While he showed flashes of potential during the 2023/24 Premier League season, he was unable to prevent Southampton’s relegation.

Fernandes is known for his work ethic, defensive qualities, and long-range passing ability.

He was a standout for Portugal during the U21 European Championship, playing a key role in their run to the quarterfinals.

If West Ham can move quickly and reach an agreement, Fernandes could prove to be a smart addition to Potter’s squad before the transfer window closes.