West Ham United have emerged as one of the European clubs showing concrete interest in Matheus Martinelli, as the Fluminense midfielder continues to increase his importance in Brazilian football. The information comes from Globo Esporte.
The Premier League club made an approach in the opening weeks of 2026. However, Fluminense did not open negotiations. According to the report, West Ham joined Olympiacos, Besiktas and clubs from Saudi Arabia in presenting offers worth around €12m (£10.2m). Fluminense rejected all of them without hesitation.
Martinelli has established himself as a central figure in the team. He now acts as the technical reference in midfield and holds strong value inside the club. And just to clear up any doubt, his name is Matheus Martinelli… and he has no connection whatsoever with Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal.
Box to box midfielder
Matheus Martinelli
Rio, Brazil – Abril 26, 2025: Martinelli player during the game between Botafogo x Fluminense by 5rd round of Brazilian Championship at the Nilton Santos stadium
He is a complete box-to-box midfielder, distinguished by his great playmaking ability, quality ball distribution, and remarkable defensive improvement, being an undisputed starter and a reference point at Fluminense. At 24 years old, he has a high volume of play, being a key player in build-up play and tackles.
So of course both the board and the coaching staff see him as crucial. Fluminense do not treat him as a negotiable asset. Only an exceptional proposal would change that stance. Any figure below €20m (£17m) is not expected to trigger talks.
West Ham need to offer more for Matheus Martinelli
West Ham midfield target Matheus Martinelli
West Ham midfield target Matheus Martinelli
The midfielder remains under contract until December 2027. Even so, Fluminense and his representatives are already discussing a renewal until 2030. Those talks remain ongoing and unfinished. The club want to protect themselves from European pressure while recognising Martinelli’s form.
The report also notes his standout display in Fluminense’s 2-1 win over Grêmio in the Brazilian league. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti watched the match in person. A call-up before the next World Cup looks difficult, but Martinelli has entered the radar for the following cycle.
For West Ham, the message from Brazil appears clear. Any future move would require a significant increase on their earlier valuation.