Southampton confirm the signing of Mateus Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon… with the Portuguese midfielder arriving at St Mary’s on a five-year deal

Southampton have announced the signing of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Mateus Fernandes in a deal worth around £15m.

The 20-year-old has represented Portugal at multiple youth levels and earned plaudits for his performances last season on loan at Primeira Liga side Estoril as they reached the final of the Portuguese league cup.

Fernandes also appeared as a second-half substitute as Sporting got their campaign off to a winning start against Rio Ave earlier this month.

In an interview after his arrival, Fernandes described the prospect of playing in the Premier League as a dream come true.

‘I’m very happy to be here, it’s a dream come true to come to England and play in the Premier League.’ Fernandes told the club’s website. 

Fernandes spent eight years at Sporting, having joined their academy from Olhanense in 2016

‘It’s the best league in the world, in my opinion. It has the best coaches, the best players, the best teams. It’s good for me, for my growth and I’m happy. 

‘I know some things about Southampton. I know about the city. I know José Fonte played here, Cedric, so I want to talk to them. I spoke to the manager and I like him a lot – his energy, his feeling, he’s very good. He talked to me and I’m very happy.

‘I want to help the team, but I’m new in England so I need help from them too! I want to help the team and enjoy the Premier League with the guys this season. I think I can help when we have the ball and when we don’t have the ball.’

Russell Martin added that he believes that Fernandes possesses the ability to have an instant impact on his side. 

‘Mateus is a player we have been monitoring for a while and someone we are really excited about. He brings great energy, retains possession well and always looks for the forward pass.

‘He is young and full of enthusiasm to come and play for Southampton. With the ability he has to drive forward from midfield, we think he has some key attributes to really help us – not just in the future, given his age, but here and now in the Premier League.’

Russell Martin insisted his new arrival has the ability to have an immediate impact at St Mary’s

Martin’s side endured a difficult start in their return to the top flight last weekend, losing 1-0 to 10-man Newcastle at St James’ Park after Joelinton netted for the hosts on the brink of half-time.

Saints will look to become the first of the promoted sides to record a Premier League win this season when they take on Nottingham Forest on Saturday.