Brazilian journalist Samuel Venâncio has shared fresh updates on Kaio Jorge’s situation at Cruzeiro, amid speculation of West Ham United preparing offers for the 23-year-old striker.
Cruzeiro’s valuation of Kaio Jorge has been set high and is only expected to rise. Speaking to local outlet Central da Toca, the journalist recalled that even before the striker’s recent call-up for Brazil, the club were making it clear that talks would only begin from at least €30m (£25.7m).
“Before the call-up, I had been informed that Cruzeiro would ask at least €30m to start a conversation. That was back then, before the national team call-up. Now his form is even better, he’s top scorer in the league and the cup…”
With Kaio Jorge now leading the scoring charts in both the Brasileirão and the Copa do Brasil, Cruzeiro believe the figure should increase further.
As we reported earlier, West Ham had enquired about the striker during the last transfer window, when they signalled a willingness to pay €25m (£21.4m). That figure, however, looks well below Cruzeiro’s expectations.
Despite all the speculation, Venâncio made it clear that no bid has yet arrived in Belo Horizonte. “Until today, Cruzeiro have not received any official proposal for Kaio Jorge. His entourage is frequently approached, but turning that into a concrete offer is still a long way off,” he said.
The journalist also stressed that Cruzeiro retain 100% of the player’s economic rights, which strengthens their position ahead of any negotiations.
Kaio Jorge himself, in a recent interview with TNT Sports, underlined how settled he feels at Cruzeiro. “This is the club where I am happiest. My performances on the pitch have improved a lot, I am very happy. I hope to keep growing like this,” he said.
He continues to dream of more call-ups under Carlo Ancelotti with an eye on the 2026 World Cup, while Cruzeiro’s stance is firm: there are no talks unless the valuation is met.
With the player showing no signs of forcing a move and enjoying his best life in Brazil, West Ham will have to wait and see if January offers a more favourable negotiating scenario.
