Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes is a key name under consideration at West Ham United this summer, with Graham Potter and his recruitment chief Kyle Macaulay both said to be admirers of the Portugal U21 international.

According to trusted insider @ExWHUEmployee, Fernandes headlines a list of midfield targets as the club begins shaping its squad under the new management.

Fernandes admired by Potter and Macaulay for midfield rebuild

Fernandes, 20, impressed in the Championship for Southampton last season and has caught the eye with his calmness on the ball and tactical awareness. His profile fits the type of midfielder Potter is looking to bring in, with a focus on control and composure in possession.

Potter and Macaulay are understood to be aligned in their interest in the young midfielder, who could be seen as a key piece in the rebuild at Rush Green.

Leicester’s El Khannouss also being monitored

Another player West Ham are tracking closely is Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss. The Moroccan midfielder showed quality during the Foxes’ promotion campaign and is viewed as a strong long-term option.

West Ham are believed to be monitoring him with the idea of developing him further under Potter’s system, especially given the manager’s well-documented preference for nurturing younger talent.

Santos seen as a loan option

Chelsea’s Andrey Santos is also on the radar, although a permanent move is considered unlikely at this stage. A season-long loan would be the more realistic route if West Ham choose to pursue the Brazilian midfielder.

Santos spent the last campaign at Nottingham Forest but made limited appearances, and a fresh opportunity at West Ham could offer more consistent minutes. The Hammers see him as a short-term solution for extra energy and help in the middle of the park if needed.

Douglas Luiz no longer in West Ham’s plans

Despite earlier links, Juventus-bound Douglas Luiz is now off West Ham’s list of targets. ExWHUEmployee reports the club moved away from negotiations after it became clear a permanent obligation-to-buy clause would be required.

The focus has shifted to more flexible or structured deals, with an emphasis on players who fit the long-term direction under Potter rather than a forced commitment.

Outgoings could influence who arrives

West Ham may allow departures from midfield this summer, with players like Tomas Soucek, Edson Álvarez, James Ward-Prowse, Guido Rodríguez, and Andy Irving all potentially available if the right offers come in.

The club is aiming to bring in at least two midfielders before the window closes. Progress on deals is expected to be tied to outgoings, as Potter works with Macaulay to reshape the squad with more mobility and technical quality.

More updates are expected as discussions continue behind the scenes during what looks to be a busy summer for the Hammers.