Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United for a club-record guaranteed fee of £85 million.
The deal was announced on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
The 21-year-old Portuguese international becomes Tottenham's fifth signing of the summer transfer window under head coach Roberto de Zerbi.
He was also pursued by Manchester United.
The transfer fee surpasses Tottenham's previous record of £65 million paid for Dominic Solanke in 2024.
Southampton, Fernandes' former club, will receive approximately £570,000 due to a 15% sell-on clause from his prior move.
Fernandes and De Zerbi Share Vision
"I'm very excited for this next step," Fernandes told club media. He expressed enthusiasm about joining the team and aligning with the tactical vision of the management.
"Spurs is a massive club and the head coach was a key part of why I have decided to join," Fernandes added.
He noted that conversations with the leadership team demonstrated a shared perspective on playing with high energy and intensity.
"When we spoke, it was very special.
We look at football in the same way - going onto the pitch as a strong team, with fight and energy, to try to win every game," Fernandes said.
The player also expressed eagerness to connect with the fanbase.
"I can't wait to get started, to meet the fans, to meet everyone, and give everything for the Club," he stated.
Head coach Roberto de Zerbi praised the new acquisition.
"I've admired Mateus for a long time because he combines quality on the ball with the intensity and intelligence that are so important in the way we want to play," De Zerbi said.
The manager emphasized Fernandes' Premier League experience despite his age.
"Despite his age, he already has good experience in the Premier League and has shown quality and consistency at this level," De Zerbi noted.
De Zerbi elaborated on Fernandes' technical capabilities and resilience.
"Mateus is comfortable under pressure, can progress the ball, works hard for the team and has the courage to make things happen in difficult moments," he remarked.
The head coach concluded that the club provides an ideal setting for the midfielder's growth.
"I believe this is the ideal environment for him to continue his development," De Zerbi said.
Sporting Director Johan Lange welcomed the addition. "I'm delighted to welcome Mateus to the Club," Lange stated.
He highlighted Fernandes' technical ability and maturity, noting he has shown he can perform consistently in demanding environments.
"We believe this is the right place for Mateus to take the next step in his career, working with our outstanding coaching staff and alongside an ambitious and talented group of players," Lange explained.
The director expressed confidence that supporters would appreciate the new signing.
"I know our supporters will enjoy watching him, as he has the talent, mentality and work ethic to become a very important player both for the present and the future of Tottenham Hotspur," Lange added.
Fernandes' arrival follows the signings of Martin Dubravka, Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson, and Jan Paul van Hecke.
Tottenham is undergoing a major squad revamp after a 17th-place finish last season.
Additionally, Tottenham has agreed a £100 million fee with Newcastle United to sign Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali, further expanding their summer transfer business.
