Southampton have rejected a £30 million offer from West Ham United for midfielder Mateus Fernandes, with the Championship side making it clear they have no intention of letting the player go for that price.
The bid, which included performance-related add-ons, was deemed well below the club's valuation and was dismissed without a counterproposal.
Fernandes, 21, has emerged as one of Southampton's standout performers last season, expected to play a key role in their push for promotion back to the Premier League.
His composed passing, work rate and ability to dictate the tempo have made him a central figure in the coach's plans, and the Saints are under no pressure to sell.
West Ham's interest is understood to be long-standing, with the Hammers keen to add energy and creativity to their midfield options.
However, with Fernandes under contract and Southampton chasing a return to the top flight, the club are expected to stand firm unless a significantly improved offer is made.
The decision to reject West Ham's approach highlights Southampton's determination to retain their core players during the summer window as they look to maintain momentum in what promises to be a fiercely contested promotion race.