Shakhtar Donetsk's Kevin. (REUTERS/Leon Kuegeler)
After a relatively positive 2024/25 campaign, Fulham have been extremely quiet in the summer transfer market.
The Cottagers’ sole signing so far has been goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte from Montpellier on what many have described as a bargain fee. Other than that, the most notable movement is the tying down of both Tom Cairney and Josh King to new contracts.
For manager Marco Silva, the lack of reinforcements has been frustrating.
“It’s not an ideal scenario,” said Silva in a recent interview, according to the BBC. “I didn’t expect us to be this passive. I knew what I wanted and the plan was there but it hasn’t happened. Right now we need to reinforce. In some positions we are very short. Did I expect it? Of course not, but the market is the market.”
Fortunately for Fulham, a potential new name could be on the horizon — and it’s a big one.
Fulham Desperate for Kevin
According to a new report from Sky Sports, Fulham are in talks with Shakhtar Donetsk over a deal for winger Kevin, though a significant gap remains between the clubs on his valuation.
If the deal goes through, it would smash Fulham’s transfer record. Their previous highest fee was for Emile Smith Rowe — an initial £27 million, potentially rising to £34 million with add-ons.
Shakhtar value Kevin at over £38 million, more than three times the €15 million they paid Palmeiras just 18 months ago.
Kevin, 22, was Shakhtar’s standout performer in 2024/25, finishing the season with nine goals, including two in the Champions League, and six assists across all competitions. He has carried that form into the 2025/26 season, already scoring four goals in the team’s first three Europa League qualifying matches.
Shakhtar boss Arda Turan has described him as a “special player,” highlighting the club’s determination to keep him.
Despite that, Fulham’s willingness to break their club record underscores how serious they are about landing the Brazilian. Should the move happen, Kevin could instantly become a key figure in Marco Silva’s squad, adding pace, creativity, and flair to a team looking to build on last season’s successes.
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