The Hammers, who have lost their first two top-flight games and were dumped out of the EFL Cup by Wolves in midweek, will part with over £40m for the 21-year-old. Fernandes becomes the third-most expensive player in West Ham's history, after creative midfielder Lucas Paqueta and striker Sebastien Haller. He only joined Southampton from Sporting CP in a £15m deal last year, before impressing in 2024-25 despite the Saints being relegated to the Championship with a mere 12 points.
Mikel Arteta believes Kepa Arrizabalaga's experience and competitive mentality will significantly enhance Arsenal's team dynamics, having come up against him numerous times in prior seasons.