Mateus Fernandes expresses missing a winning environment at Southampton, an issue that the club needs to fix over the summer.
Recently, FA Cup winners Crystal Palace came in enquiring about Mateus Fernandes. Understandably, this just adds to the headache of Saints fans who already fear losing their best player this summer.
Yet, that being said, the St. Mary's faithful still enjoy a safety net in the back of their minds.
That's because Southampton has been the first club to help the Portuguese talent achieve a transition to the biggest European league, and Mateus will be grateful to the Saints for always. Well, that just adds to the loads of love the club fans have showered over him this season.
But will this emotional connection prove enough to retain the ambitious young prodigy? Sadly, it doesn't feel so.
Intriguingly, despite acknowledging the support of the fans and the club in his Saints journey, Mateus recently made an honest admission of what he lacks here.
Mateus Fernandes wishes for a winning environment next season
As quoted by the Daily Echo, Mateus confessed on his Southampton situation, saying: "They have good players, a good coach, and the stadium atmosphere is very nice. So, yes, it's a dream come true but I miss the feeling of winning."
Honestly, this claim may not sit well with some Saints fans, but for a 20-year-old Mateus, it showcases nothing but his winning attitude.
On the flip side, this is a reality check for Southampton that they must improve upon, should they hope to retain Mateus Fernandes.
Like it or not, but it's the moment of action for the club: Either they provide the midfielder a promise to return to winning ways in the Championship next season or surrender to his skyrocketing transfer demands.
After all, with clubs like Crystal Palace marching in with their Europa League luring point and Nottingham present with their UCL dream, why would Mateus stay at Southampton, if not for winning?
Yet, for Southampton, it all squares back to laying the foundation of a winning project with the right managerial decision. The clock is ticking.