West Ham face uphill battle to keep hold of Mateus Fernandes as stats vs Crystal Palace emerge
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Credit: Imago Tue 21 April 2026 11:00, UK West Ham United were forced to settle for just a point in Monday’s goalless draw with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.The home side thought they had won it in the final moments when Ismaila Sarr controlled and smashed into the back of the net, but Jean-Philippe Mateta had handled the ball just moments before.The point keeps West Ham two points above Tottenham and the relegation zone, after the Lilywhites suffered a late equaliser at the hands of Brighton on Saturday.The Irons now face a difficult run of fixtures to the end of the season, with their fate undoubtedly linked to the futures of the likes of Mateus Fernandes.Having signed him from Southampton last summer, West Ham transfer chiefs are in a strong position but will be aware that the midfielder does not want to play in the Championship. 🔄West Ham United Transfer Update🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the West Ham United boardroom. VISIT THE WEST HAM TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Mateus Fernandes’ impressive stats vs Crystal PalaceFormer Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Manchester City are interested in Fernandes, amid a growing list of suitors for the West Ham man.Despite the Hammers’ struggles this season, the 21-year-old again proved on Monday how impressive he has been in the middle of the park.Mateus FernandesStats vs Crystal Palace (A)Minutes played90Accurate passes49/56Accurate long balls6/7Tackles3Recoveries10Was fouled4Duels won8/9Fernandes is all-action, and came forward to in an attempt to push the Irons forward throughout the game.The Portugal international completed all but one of his attempted long balls and nine passes into the final third.
Fernandes made three tackles, 10 recoveries and won four free-kicks. In the duel, he was imperious, losing just one of those he contested.West Ham did not win the game, but they can thank their midfielder for the fact that they did not lose it.West Ham may be burned by familiar flameShould West Ham be relegated from the Premier League next month, they will be aware that Fernandes will not be keen to stick around.
They used his desire to play top-flight football to sign him last summer, after Southampton had been relegated. Mateus Fernandes has joined West Ham United in a package worth over £40m.All the best, Matty 🤝— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) August 29, 2025 View Tweet The 21-year-old initially looked likely to stay with the Saints, who had signed him the summer before, but decision-makers ultimately granted him a move away after he had made his wishes clear.That same scenario could play out this summer, with West Ham likely fighting for their safety and their future with Fernandes. ⚒️ Don’t Miss a Beat: Your West Ham Insider Access Get the full story from the London Stadium and Rush Green with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from East London.