West Ham United ace Mateus Fernandes is reportedly a summer target for Luis Enrique’s reigning European Champions Paris Saint-Germain.
But speaking ahead of PSG’s 3-0 thrashing of doomed Nantes in midweek, the former Roma, Celta Vigo and Barcelona coach did not sound like a man expecting a mega-money midfield acquisition.
PSG’s Football Advisor Luis Campos has reportedly made contact with the West Ham United playmaker’s camp, per Foot Mercato.
What does Matty need to IMPROVE to become the perfect midfielder?
Are there any weaknesses?
Campos played a major role in turning Paris into an enclave for Portuguese talent, signing Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, Goncalo Ramos and Joao Neves in recent times.
Mateus Fernandes, reports say, is the next Iberian talent in his sights.
Luis Enrique speaks out as PSG are linked with West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes
In quotes reported by Paris Fans, though, Enrique not only expects a summer of ‘few’ signings, he also made a point in saying how happy he is with his current midfield options.
“We won everything we won last year thanks to the type of players we have as substitutes. They train very well and bring their qualities when they have to play. It’s the same this year,” begins Enrique, whose side will face Bayern Munich in defence of their Champions League crown during the semi-finals.
“Last year, we were champions of all competitions. It would be ridiculous to sign a lot of players. It’s normal to have few reinforcements. It will be the same next [summer].”
Enrique ‘happy’ with Paris Saint-Germain’s midfield options
Despite earning his first cap in March, Fernandes could miss out on Portugal’s World Cup squad. PSG duo Vitinha and Joao Neves – surely the finest midfield partnership on the planet right now – are firmly established higher up in Roberto Martinez’s pecking order.
What changes would you make to this team? Feel free to tell me how wrong I’ve got it 😂
Enrique can also call upon Warren Zaire-Emery – who president Nasser Al Khelaifi once dubbed PSG’s answer to Steven Gerrard – while Fabian Ruiz is now back from injury. Centre-back Lucas Beraldo has impressed during a few outings in a new-look midfield role of late too, further removing the need for a substantial investment in the shape of Fernandes.
“[Beraldo] didn’t have an opportunity as a centre-back. I think he’s had some very good performances [in midfield]. He has the technical qualities; he’s strong. I like the way he’s played these matches,” adds Enrique.
“It’s a new situation, and I’m happy to have more options in midfield.”
Fernandes will be one of the first names on Nuno Espirito Santo’s team sheet, as usual, when West Ham host Everton at the London Stadium on Saturday.
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