Why Martinelli could break transfer history after West Ham United approach

West Ham United have clearly seen into the future with their pursuit of Martinelli.

An unknown in England, the midfielder is exploding onto the scene in Brazil over recent months.

That has seen him called upon by Carlo Ancelotti and his country.

English clubs have started to frequently use the South American market to extract serious market and create profits for themselves.

West Ham are no different, although they'll be hoping for better success than their punt on Keiber Lamadrid so far.

Martinelli was another of their targets, but it may take a small slice of history to get him to the London Stadium now.

How much is Martinelli worth?

West Ham have made their move for the Brazilian in 2026, but to little success so far.

It's uncertain whether it was in January or after relegation across the summer for Nuno Espirito Santo.

Now, Ge Globo has reported that Martinelli's probable future sale will likely be the biggest in Fluminense's history.

The Brazilian outlet reports that West Ham have made one bid in 2026, along with others, but they didn't go over £12million.

For comparison, Fluminense's current record sale is Andre to Wolves, who cost the Molineux outfit £21.4m.

Currently, though, Martinelli is seen as untouchable, but his form and call-up for Brazil means that a record sale is likely coming, it's said.

Do West Ham need another midfielder?

In short, they definitely could do.

Edson Alvarez and Soungoutou Magassa could be on the way out, following Mateus Fernandes and James Ward-Prowse, with other options limited.

Divine Mukasa and Arne Engels are the current starters for Nuno, who has Mahamadou Kante and Lewis Orford behind.

Three of those are still very young and Engels isn't exactly experienced in England, so another face is needed.

With Nottingham Forest, Besiktas and Al Shabab all making moves this year too, it'll be hard for West Ham to win a race while still in the Championship.

If they only make room for one signing in January, though, this could be one to throw all of their money at.