West Ham United could reignite their pursuit of a Brazilian midfielder this summer, having seen an initial approach rebuffed during the January transfer window. The Hammers are said to be keen on Fluminense's Matheus Martinelli, a 24-year-old defensive midfielder, as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the next season.
Transfer Interest and January Setback
According to reports from Globo Esporte, West Ham demonstrated genuine interest in Martinelli earlier this year, alongside clubs like Besiktas, Olympiacos, and offers from Saudi Arabia. Fluminense, however, opted to retain the player as the Brazilian season commenced, with bids around £10.2 million failing to secure a deal. This has set the stage for a potential summer move, contingent on West Ham's Premier League status.
Financial Considerations and Competition
If West Ham avoid relegation, they may need to outbid other suitors to land Martinelli. Estimates suggest a transfer could cost between £15 million and £20 million, a sum that might be manageable for the club, especially compared to financial powerhouses from Saudi Arabia. The outcome hinges on their league position, with the team currently six points behind Nottingham Forest in the battle for safety.
West Ham's January Window and Manager's Outlook
The winter transfer period saw West Ham make several key signings, including Taty Castellanos, Adama Traore, Felipe Pablo, Keiber Lamadrid, and Axel Disasi. These additions have injected hope into the squad, despite a recent 2-0 loss to Chelsea. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo expressed satisfaction with the window, highlighting the strategic rebalancing of the team.
In a press conference, Santo remarked, "We brought players in who we considered to make sense to us, in terms of rebalancing our squad. I think the players who came in can help us." He acknowledged challenges, such as the situation with Lucas Paquetá, but remained optimistic about the team's competitiveness and commitment in the relegation fight.
Future Prospects and Fan Assurance
Santo reassured fans of the club's positive trajectory, stating, "I'm totally convinced we're going to be OK. I can tell our fans that we are positive, we are working, we are committed, we are aware of the situation and we know the responsibility is on us." This confidence extends to potential summer dealings, with Martinelli emerging as a key target to further strengthen the midfield.
As the season progresses, West Ham's ability to secure Premier League survival will be crucial in determining their transfer ambitions. A successful bid for Martinelli could represent a significant coup, enhancing their squad depth and tactical options for the challenges ahead.
