NOTTINGHAM Forest are reportedly considering a move for Saints star man Mateus Fernandes this summer.

Forest, seventh in the Premier League, are said to be considering Fernandes as they prepare to return to European football. 

The Portuguese youth international has enjoyed a breakout season at Southampton, despite the club suffering a record-breaking relegation.

Fernandes, who turns 21 in July, has played the third-most minutes of any player at Saints, behind only Kyle Walker-Peters and Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

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Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring his first goal at St Mary's.Mateus Fernandes celebrates scoring his first goal at St Mary's. (Image: Stuart Martin) The Telegraph reports that Forest admire Fernandes, and are keeping close tabs on him in the event that England international Morgan Gibbs-White departs the club.

Their report notes that the former Sporting midfielder fits "Forest’s profile with his age and potential".

Under contract until 2029, Saints hold a strong position over Fernandes' future, but will need to sell players to raise key funds in the Championship.

Interim Saints boss Simon Rusk has admitted that he expects clubs to show an interest in Fernandes this summer.

"I think his energy level, his commitment and his focus are second to none. He's a player that I love working with," he told the Daily Echo last month.

Mateus Fernandes has scored two Premier League goals in his first Saints season.Mateus Fernandes has scored two Premier League goals in his first Saints season. (Image: Stuart Martin) READ: Footage emerges showing absurd referee decision against Saints starlet Dibling

"No doubt about it, he would catch people's eye. The amount of games and minutes he's played in the Premier League this year, his contribution and his age, those three things scream attention.

"It wouldn't surprise me if he's attracted interest. He's a very, very committed, energetic player with quality at 20 years old playing in the Premier League."

Fernandes has made 34 appearances for Saints in the Premier League this season, having made his debut against Forest in August.

His two goals and three assists see him rank as Southampton's joint-highest goal contributor this season, alongside Paul Onuachu (four goals, one assist).