Wolves are considering a move for Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the Portuguese star expected to leave St. Mary’s this summer.
Southampton’s relegation to the Championship means a number of their top talents are likely to depart.
Defender Jan Bednarek has already joined Porto, while goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has moved to Newcastle United on loan with an option to buy.
Earlier this week, Everton saw a bid worth £40 million rejected for young winger Tyler Dibling.
But one Saints player has been attracting more interest than anyone throughout the transfer window.
Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes is regarded by many as Southampton’s best player.
The 21-year-old arrived on the South Coast last season from Sporting CP.
If he does remain at St. Mary’s, he is expected to play a crucial role in Southampton’s promotion bid.
The Saints are currently 11/2 with UK betting sites to clinch the Championship title, making them second-favourites behind Ipswich Town.
Despite his side’s relegation in 20th place last season, Fernandes frequently impressed in a dreadful outfit.
His performances have earned him plenty of attention, and it now seems Wolves are the latest club to enter the race for his signature.
Feliz aniversário, Matty! 🥳
Mateus Fernandes turns 21 today! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/6CwEGcCr1z
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) July 10, 2025
Jorge Mendes Could Help Mateus Fernandes Wolves Move
Fernandes has no shortage of suitors, but Wolves have emerged as a strong possible destination.
The player is open to a move, and wants to continue playing in the Premier League.
But a key deciding factor in where he ends up may be his agent.
Mateus Fernandes is represented by Jorge Mendes’ Gestifute, which also works with Wolves stars Jose Sa, Fer Lopez and Matt Doherty.
Mendes has a long-standing relationship with Wolves. The club has signed countless Portuguese players, turning relative unknowns into elite-level talents.
Such a move could therefore prove attractive to Fernandes, who has shown significant potential.
🏆 OFFICIAL: Best Agent at Globe Soccer Awards, Jorge Mendes. pic.twitter.com/EmztSdC0OR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 27, 2024
Mateus Fernandes Could Fill Void Left By Matheus Nunes
Mendes is also the agent of former Wolves midfielder, Matheus Nunes.
Nunes joined Manchester City in 2023, leaving a big hole in the Wolves side.
But there have been a lot of similarities drawn between the two players.
Fernandes’ former coach Vasco Seabra has likened him to Nunes, while suggesting the youngster is more versatile.
Described as an ‘immense talent’, the Southampton starlet has proven himself Premier League quality, even in a struggling team.
Numerous Clubs Keen On Mateus Fernandes Transfer
But Wolves will face very stiff competition if the do choose to go in for the player.
Recent reports have suggested more than a dozen clubs are monitoring Fernandes at present.
In the Premier League, Aston Villa, Manchester United and West Ham have all been strongly linked.
While overseas, Benfica, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus are also thought to be considering a bid.
From Southampton’s side of things, they are under no obligation to sell.
Fernandes is under contract until 2029, with Saints boss Will Still relaxed about the situation.
Still said regarding the chance of Fernandes staying this season: “I hope so, I know he’s a good player. I know there’s interest. I know there’s a lot of noise around him.
“That’s normal when you’ve got quality players like him, but I think the club has been clear.
“If he leaves, he’ll leave at the right price and we’ll be able to replace him. I’m not too worried about that. I don’t want to get involved in all the rumours and stuff.”
