Fulham Consider Record-Breaking £34m Move for Winger | OneFootball

Fulham Continue Talks for Shakhtar Winger Kevin

Fulham remain in discussions with Shakhtar Donetsk over the signing of Brazilian winger Kevin, but there is still a substantial difference between the two clubs’ valuations. According to Sky Sports, “It is understood that if Fulham sign Kevin it could end up being a new club record.”

The Cottagers’ current record is the £27 million deal for Emile Smith Rowe, signed earlier this summer from Arsenal. That fee could rise to £34 million if all performance-related bonuses are triggered. In Kevin’s case, the figures being discussed would surpass even that level.

Photo: IMAGO

Valuation Gap Between Clubs

Shakhtar Donetsk’s stance is firm. They value Kevin at more than three times the €15 million they paid Palmeiras just 18 months ago, which would equate to more than £38 million. Fulham, while highly interested in the 21-year-old, are believed to be looking for a compromise before committing to such a significant outlay.

The difference in valuations has kept negotiations from progressing to the final stages, but the ongoing talks suggest both sides are willing to keep the door open. For Fulham, breaking the transfer record for a player still early in his European career would be a bold statement of intent.

Kevin’s Rise and Playing Style

Kevin’s development since arriving at Shakhtar has been rapid. The winger’s pace, dribbling and direct attacking style have made him one of the standout talents in the Ukrainian Premier League. His ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations and deliver in the final third has attracted scouts from across Europe, but Fulham have emerged as one of the most serious contenders for his signature.

Shakhtar’s valuation reflects both his potential and the growing market for young attacking players. While £38 million is a substantial fee, the club’s track record in developing and selling elite talent is well known, with previous high-value transfers including Mykhailo Mudryk’s move to Chelsea.

Fulham’s Ambition in the Market

If Fulham were to meet Shakhtar’s demands, it would represent a landmark moment for the club in terms of financial ambition. Marco Silva has been keen to add pace and creativity to his forward line, and Kevin fits that profile perfectly. However, the challenge lies in balancing ambition with sustainability, ensuring that a record-breaking deal does not disrupt the club’s financial structure.

Photo: IMAGO

The situation is finely balanced. With pre-season preparations giving way to competitive fixtures, Fulham will be eager to conclude their recruitment early enough for new signings to integrate into the squad. Whether Kevin becomes the centrepiece of that effort will depend on how far the club is willing to push their limits in the transfer market.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Fulham fans, the pursuit of Kevin feels exciting but also nerve-racking. On one hand, the idea of signing a young, high-potential winger who could transform the team’s attacking threat is exactly the sort of move fans have been hoping for. His direct style, pace and technical quality could give the team an extra dimension, particularly against sides that sit deep and frustrate Fulham’s build-up play.

However, the reported £38 million valuation is hard to ignore. While many fans would love to see the club push the boat out, there will also be concerns about whether such an investment is sensible, especially for a player who has yet to prove himself in one of Europe’s top leagues.

The key for Fulham will be to ensure that if this signing goes through, it is part of a wider plan rather than a single marquee purchase. Supporters will want to see balance across the squad, ensuring that funds are not so heavily committed to one player that other areas of need are neglected. If the deal happens, expectations will be high, and Kevin will need to deliver quickly to justify the price tag.