West Ham United’s pursuit of Matheus Martinelli has just become significantly more complicated, but also clearer.
After securing his contract renewal until 2030, Fluminense have now increased the midfielder’s release clause to €30m (£25.6m). The information comes fromRTI Esporte.That figure more than doubles the €13m (£11.1m) bid rejected earlier this year.
At the time, Fluminense refused to even open negotiations. Now, the price has been clearly defined. On top of the raised cost, West Ham face an issue caused by a difficult transfer to Wolves.
Jhon Arias moved to Wolves in the summer, but found himself in a relegation fight quickly. That wasn’t what he had in mind and he quickly left for Palmeiras. That lesson has had an impact in Brazil on perceptions of transfers to teams lower down the table.
Clause raised as World Cup strategy
The renewal was not merely contractual protection. Internally, Fluminense believe Martinelli could enter the Brazil squad under Carlo Ancelotti for the March international break.
There is also expectation he can compete for a place in the squad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. If that happens, his market value is expected to rise further.
As a result, the club’s plan is straightforward. They do not intend to negotiate any sale before the World Cup. The strategy is to reassess the situation after the tournament, ideally with a higher valuation.
For West Ham, that introduces both timing pressure and financial escalation.
Player wants Europe – but not just any move
Martinelli has already informed Fluminense he wants to play in Europe. However, there is an important condition.
He does not want to join a club fighting in the lower half of major European leagues. Internally, the case of former teammate Jhon Arias at Wolves has been cited as a lesson in choosing the right project.
That detail matters for West Ham. If the London side are not competing for European positions, convincing the midfielder may become harder. Arias’ short stay at Wolves has been huge news in Brazil, and highlighted the negatives of such a move.
The 24-year-old academy graduate is a central figure at Fluminense. He has 300 appearances and remains one of their most valuable assets.
With a €30m (£25.6m) clause now in place and a post-World Cup sale strategy defined, West Ham face a gamble. Move early and pay big, or wait and risk paying even more.