West Ham sign Fernandes

LONDON, Aug 29, (AFP): West Ham have signed Portuguese Under-21 midfielder midfielder Mateus Fernandes from second tier Championship side Southampton, the Premier League club announced Friday.

The 21-year-old has agreed a five-year deal to sign for the struggling London side in a fee reported to be worth more than £40 million ($54 million).

The Hammers, who face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday, are bottom of the table, having lost both of their matches so far.

West Ham were also knocked out of the English League Cup earlier this week after they surrendered a two-goal lead over Wolves.

"I'm very happy to be here, and I'm very excited to play for West Ham," said Fernandes, who endured a tough Premier League baptism last season with Southampton as they were relegated.