Arsenal are the latest Premier League side to be credited with interest in Flamengo midfielder Evertton Araújo, but they are entering a situation that has already evolved significantly in recent weeks.
The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has gone from a relatively quiet internal option to one of Flamengo’s most valuable assets.
Earlier this year, West Ham United made initial checks and internally valued him at around £10.2m (€12m). Then Newcastle entered the picture with representatives following his performances.
Also, a Bundesliga club is now believed to be preparing a proposal closer to €20m (£17m), while Flamengo are working on a potential contract renewal to strengthen their position.
In other words, the price is rising – and the list of suitors is growing.
Arsenal join expanding Premier League queue
Arsenal’s emergence adds another layer to a situation that was already developing.
The Gunners have now been named among clubs monitoring Evertton Araújo, according to Radar da Bola. It is a niche outlet that has become quite reliable when it comes to Rio de Janeiro state sides, which is Flamengo’s case.
While their level of interest is not described as advanced, the midfielder is firmly on the radar of multiple Premier League sides.
Flamengo are comfortable with that. Internally, the club believe the player still has significant room for appreciation in the European market. Also, they have made it clear that any talks would only begin at a high price point.
Opportunity to rise
As we recently covered, his rise at Flamengo has been driven both by opportunity and performance, and it involves a familiar face to the Gunners. Former Arsenal midfielder Jorginho, who was a regular starter until he got injured, opened space in the starting XI.
Evertton Araújo has taken advantage of that, delivering consistent displays that have strengthened his standing within the squad.
Even Manager Leonardo Jardim praised him, saying that “he’s the model of a player who is successful in Europe. He has physical ability, he’s good in duels”.
Different levels of interest shape emerging auction
Arsenal may be the newest name in the picture, but again, they are not alone.
Newcastle United have been more actively tracking the player, with internal discussions already taking place regarding a potential move. Their interest appears more concrete, with consistent monitoring of his performances.
West Ham United, meanwhile, were among the first to move. They carried out initial checks earlier in the year, but their £10.2m (€12m) valuation now looks increasingly outdated. And of course a deal would depend on their Premier League survival.
Beyond England, an unnamed Bundesliga club is understood to be preparing a bid in the region of €20m (£17m). That figure has effectively set a new reference point.
Taken together, we have clubs at different stages, but the direction is the same. A summer move could materialise fast.
What this means as Flamengo hold firm
Flamengo are not under pressure to sell of course.
The club have already rejected lower offers in the past and are now considering a contract renewal to increase protection. In addition, lower-league side Volta Redonda retain 30% of the player’s economic rights, adding complexity to any potential deal.
With Arsenal now entering the frame, Newcastle monitoring closely, West Ham already positioned and Germany potentially setting the price, the conditions for an auction are emerging.
And for interested clubs, the longer they wait now, the more expensive this deal is likely to become.
