Santos ‘to assess’ José Martínez loan amid Corinthians tensions | OneFootball

Santos are monitoring the situation of Corinthians midfielder José Martínez, with any move currently seen only as a market possibility. According to Diario Do Peixe, the club want two midfielders and he fits the number five profile.

The idea would be to test the feasibility of a loan, taking advantage of the player’s current context at Corinthians. Caution remains due to left knee pain reported on his return to Brazil.

Martínez’s 2026 return was delayed in Venezuela while renewing a full passport, a process hit by the political crisis, border closures and service shutdowns.

When he finally reported to CT Joaquim Grava in February, he complained of knee pain and was sent to the medical staff. His absence frustrated the board and coach Dorival Júnior, and he missed the start of the Paulistão and the Supercopa.

Corinthians have issued financial and disciplinary measures. He was fined 40% of his salary, lost January’s wages in full, could face further deductions for February, and must complete extra training and make a formal apology.

Tensions rose after posts by his wife on social media showed leisure activities during a period the club said lacked clear communication from the player.

Despite this, Martínez has played 70 games for Corinthians, scoring two and assisting two, and helped win the 2025 Campeonato Paulista and Copa do Brasil. He is a Venezuela regular, playing at the 2021 and 2024 Copa América and in 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Source: Diario Do Peixe