Leeds United need revealed in Mateus Fernandes transfer twist
Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa have all been linked with a move for Southampton youngster Mateus Fernandes.
The 20-year-old has made 35 league appearances this season and has been among the first names on the team sheet for the Saints.
Despite joining last summer, the Portuguese midfielder has already become an integral part of the first team.
Leeds United need Fernandes more than Crystal Palace
On his Patreon account on 23 May, Sun journalist Alan Nixon issued an update on Fernandes' move this summer.
He claims that Leeds, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are three clubs vying for the midfielder's services.
It's understood that Southampton are willing to sanction an exit, provided a club can offer £30million in return.
| Stats | Aaronson (Premier League 22/23) | Fernandes (Premier League 24/25) |
| Matches | 36 | 35 |
| Goals | 1 | 2 |
| Assists | 3 | 3 |
| Minutes played | 2,383 | 2,829 |
Palace were the first side to show interest in him, but it's the Whites who are willing to come the closest to Saints' valuation.
They've earmarked the former Sporting CP midfielder as their number one transfer priority for the upcoming window.
On BlueSky Social, Nixon wrote: "Leeds maybe need him more."
Fernandes may be an expensive option at £30m for the Elland Road outfit
The £30million valuation for Fernandes is steep for Leeds, a newly promoted side needing to balance ambition with financial prudence.
While the 20-year-old Portuguese midfielder is highly rated for his technical ability, vision and versatility, the price tag strains Leeds’ budget, especially with other squad areas needing reinforcement.
His standout Premier League performances make him a coveted playmaker, attracting interest from Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.
Clubs are keen on Fernandes for his ability to control tempo, break lines with precise passing and contribute defensively, fitting both possession-based and high-pressing systems.
The Elland Road outfit, prioritising him as a key No. 8, must negotiate the fee down to around £20-25million, leveraging Southampton’s relegation.
This would allow Daniel Farke to secure a dynamic midfielder without compromising funds for other targets, ensuring a competitive Premier League return.