West Ham's Flamengo's interest in midfielder Everton Araújo may have arrived before the Brazilian's market value exploded.
The 23-year-old has become one of Flamengo's most sought-after assets in recent months. Too, armory And newcastle Interest is also credited. Reports in Brazil suggest the Bundesliga club could Ready to pay around €20m (£17m).
Meanwhile, Flamengo are considering a contract renewal as they look to strengthen their position ahead of an increasingly busy transfer window.
Yet just a few months ago, Everton were facing a very different reality.
speaking this week At Flamengo's training center, the midfielder revealed that there came a time when he felt that a departure was necessary. Opportunities in the first team were so limited that he considered leaving. It was during that period that West Ham emerged as a solid option.
West Ham's chance came when the road was blocked
Everton faced stiff competition for minutes, before establishing themselves in Flamengo's midfield.
Eric Pulgar, Jorginho, Nicolas de la Cruz, Saul and Allan were all ahead of him in the pecking order. As a result, there was little room for a young player still trying to progress.
As we covered at the timeWest Ham made a solid approach during a period when the midfielder's future at the club was uncertain.
Reflecting on that stage of his career, Everton admitted he was seriously considering a move.
"I had to go because I didn't have a place in the first team, but I didn't want to go," he explained.
While a move abroad could have represented the most obvious route to regular football, the midfielder's preference was always to establish himself at Flamengo.
Patience pays off as Flamengo rises to change picture
A combination of persistence and opportunity ultimately led to success.
Injuries and absences in Flamengo's midfield opened the door, and Everton seized their chance. Having already spent several months working with the senior team, he gradually earned more minutes. Besides, he also increased his responsibility.
He ultimately finished the season as a regular starter, marking a remarkable turnaround from a player who had once struggled to find his way into the team.
His performances also received praise from within the club. flamengo manager leonardo jardim Earlier he was described as a player with qualities suited to European football. He highlighted his physical profile, defensive work and ability to play forward under pressure.
So the midfielder who once believed he needed to leave Flamengo for West Ham because there was no room for him there is now one of the club's most valuable assets. And the list of European buyers is growing and the price is also increasing.
