Chelsea have joined race for Mateus Fernandes

Chelsea have reportedly joined the pursuit of West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Blues currently have Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez as their first-choice midfielders in the central positions.

Romeo Lavia and Andrey Santos are among the backups, but the former has been largely injury-prone in his young career.

He was once again injured before the FA Cup final against Manchester City and reports claim that the Blues are ready to cut their losses on him.

In that case, a new midfielder could be pursued and the hierarchy have been particularly impressed by the scout reports on Fernandes this term.

Despite the Hammers languishing in the drop zone, Fernandes has been brilliant with his defensive contributions and excelled higher up too.

The Portuguese has managed nine goal contributions. The Hammers could be prepared to sell him for around £50 million if they are relegated.

However, the price could rise to £80 million if they beat the drop.