The 24-year-old centre-back has attracted attention ahead of the winter transfer window, with German publication [_Fussballeuropa_](https://www.fussballeuropa.com/news/exklusiv-gremio-verteidiger-gustavo-martins-bei-nottingham-und-everton-auf-dem-zettel-2026-11) reporting that both Premier League clubs have included him on their lists of potential targets.
Martins has spent almost his entire career at Grêmio, joining the club’s academy in 2018 before progressing into the senior side. He has now made more than 100 first-team appearances and established himself as a regular option in central defence.
Standing at 1.91 metres, the Brazilian offers considerable physical presence, but his mobility and pace are also regarded as important qualities. He has contributed at the other end of the pitch, too, with goals from headers and more unusual finishes adding to his reputation.
There is no indication that either English club has submitted an offer or entered formal negotiations. The reported valuation of €12-15 million would, however, give Forest and Everton an idea of the financial commitment required to bring him to England.
That figure is considerably higher than the amount discussed when Shakhtar Donetsk explored a move earlier in the year. Brazilian journalist Kaliel Dorneles reported that the Ukrainian club had been considering an offer of approximately €7 million, but the proposed transfer did not progress after Martins suffered a muscular injury.
The defender returned to action later in August and scored twice against Chapecoense, but the timing of the injury had already disrupted the possibility of a move.
Grêmio also have reasons to retain him. Martins became an important member of the starting side under coach Luís Castro during 2026, and the club had previously opened discussions with his representatives about extending his contract.
His current agreement runs until December 2027, with Grêmio having considered adding a further three years. However, subsequent reporting in Brazil indicated that the club had frozen renewal negotiations while prioritising its fight to remain in the top flight.
That leaves the defender’s contractual situation unresolved as interest from abroad develops.
For Nottingham Forest and Everton, the prospect of recruiting a centre-back with Martins’s physical attributes and experience could be attractive, but Grêmio’s valuation is a significant factor. The earlier Shakhtar interest also demonstrates that the Brazilian has been on the radar of European clubs before.
Neither Premier League side has made a formal move at this stage, and any January approach will depend on whether Grêmio are prepared to negotiate and whether interested clubs are willing to meet their demands.