West Ham midfield target Matheus Martinelli
West Ham midfield target Matheus Martinelli
West Ham United may have shown interest in Martinelli earlier this year, but Fluminense are now moving quickly to secure their midfielder’s future.
According to Globo Esporte, the Brazilian club opened talks to extend Martinelli’s contract until 2030. Now, there’s been a fresh development.
Just a few minutes after, Globo Esporte journalist Marcello Neves has provided an update on social media, stating that Fluminense is already on verge of agreeing a renewal until 2030. So apparently the talks inside the club are running fast.
Martinelli’s current deal runs until December 2027. However, after renewed European interest – including from West Ham – Fluminense accelerated negotiations. The club want to protect one of their most important players and avoid future pressure in the market.
West Ham were among the sides to submit proposals during the first 2026 window. Olympiacos, Besiktas and clubs from Saudi Arabia also made approaches. All offers were worth around €12m (£10.2m). Fluminense rejected every bid without opening discussions.
West Ham interest meets stronger contract position
Internally, Fluminense see Martinelli as a key figure in the squad. He recently captained the side to the State Championship title and impressed again in the derby against Botafogo.
The midfielder has admitted he dreams of playing in one of the world’s top leagues. Still, he made clear that any move must work for both sides.
“If it is to build my career here, I will do it with all the happiness in the world. I have nothing to complain about here,” he said in a recent interview. He made that clear in a previous chat with the local press.
For West Ham, the timing is significant. If the renewal is finalised, Fluminense will enter future windows with a stronger negotiating position.
Any fresh attempt from the London club would likely require a higher offer than the €12m (£10.2m) already rejected. We’ll see if West Ham decide to test that resolve again.