European qualification contenders Nottingham Forest show interest in Mateus Fernandes, proving Simon Rusk's foreseen prediction of the midfielder.
Weeks ago, interim Saints boss Simon Rusk made a bold prediction, saying that prodigy Mateus Fernandes might attract big suitors. Though no one doubted Fernandes' potential, Rusk’s confidence at the time raised eyebrows.
Well, a lot has happened since then, with Rusk having steered Southampton clear off the lowest ever total. While Rusk recently earned his on-field success, the interim is now winning off the field, too.
That bold Fernandes prediction? It's ageing like fine wine now, with the player catching approaches from some of the best Premier League clubs.
Notably, earlier PL Champions Liverpool had come enquiring about the 20-year-old, and now Nottingham Forest have shown interest in the attacking midfielder's profile, too.
Nottingham considers Mateus Fernandes an ideal option for UCL dream
Interestingly, a recent Telegraph report matched Mateus Fernandes' profile as an exciting option for the Forest on similar characteristics Rusk had mentioned in his claim. Further, Nottingham are tipped to take steps for the Saints' prodigy, in case they lose Morgan Gibbs-White in the summer.
Now, for Nuno's side, replacing Gibbs-White with a younger option in Fernandes will definitely take them close to their Champions League dream. But what for Southampton now?
Well, admit it or not, but Rusk's forecast coming true has now the Saints in big trouble. That's because, despite a bulky roster, Southampton don't have a proper Mateus backup if he leaves.
Having already closed doors on loanee Albert Gronbaek(who could've acted as a replacement) has worsened their situation. And definitely, they can't rely on club legend Adam Lallana, who might've played his last game far before already.
So, it's clear, the Saints will need a new recruitment if Fernandes departs. And a perfect one again, for the indispensable role the Portuguese midfielder has been doing for them.
But that's again, if Mateus Fernandes leaves? Let's hope it doesn't happen in the first place.