Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Wed 18 March 2026 21:35, UK

Leo Pereira’s contract talks at Flamengo have stalled, and West Ham United must position themselves to pounce if a deal is not agreed.

Pereira emerged as a target for the Hammers in the winter window as they sought to add another centre-back to Nuno Espirito Santo’s ranks.

Flamengo ultimately shot down any chance of the defender making a move away in January, closing negotiations.

The Serie A side were only willing to let their centre-back exit if the interested parties activated Pereira’s release clause.

However, as Pereira looks to try and sign a new deal for the Brazilian side, a West Ham transfer could be back on the cards.

What is happening with Leo Pereira’s Flamengo talks?

Pereira has been called up to the Brazilian national team and is set to use that as leverage in his talks with Flamengo.

According to O Globo, Flamengo were set to reward Pereira with a new deal, but since then, there has been little progress, with Flamengo signing multiple players on higher wages.

Additionally, Pereira’s renewal is not seen as a priority. The South American side are looking to sort out contracts for deals expiring in 2026, which does include the Hammers target.

If talks continue to stall, the Brazilian may become unsettled, and that can open the door for West Ham to pounce for Pereira for a second time.

The ongoing situation at the Rio-based club must certainly be one of interest to E20 officials.

The defender is highly regarded in his native country after impressive performances in the previous Brazilian Serie A campaign and would be a shrewd acquisition by the Irons.

Who could Pereira replace at West Ham?

The Hammers’ current central defenders have deals which are not close to expiring, other than loanee Disasi.

With players such as Kilman failing to impress since arriving, Pereira could easily replace him in the squad.

The signing of Pereira could offer the Irons an experienced centre-back, with the 29-year-old playing 438 games throughout his career so far.

As seen with the arrival of Disasi this season, the right defender can provide a spark and uplift the rest of the team.

The Brazilian’s future is without a doubt one to keep an eye on over the coming months.