Fluminense faces a pivotal moment with a proposal from Ukraine’s Shakhtar Donetsk for striker John Kennedy, the hero who scored the decisive goal in the 2023 Conmebol Libertadores title. The offer, valued at 6 million euros (approximately R$38 million), was presented to the Rio-based club on the morning of Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in São Paulo, according to sources close to the negotiations. The young star from Xerém, who recently returned from a loan spell at Mexico’s Pachuca, has caught international attention after standout performances, despite not yet scoring since rejoining Fluminense. The bid arrives as Fluminense competes in the Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil, and Sudamericana, potentially marking a financial and strategic turning point for the club, which holds Kennedy’s contract until 2027.
The talks with Shakhtar Donetsk put Fluminense at a crossroads: sell one of its top talents or keep him to bolster the squad. At 23, John Kennedy is seen as a key asset for the club’s future, but the Ukrainian offer is tempting, especially as Fluminense seeks to balance its finances. Known as the “King’s Kid” among fans, Kennedy returned to the club in July 2025 after an early loan termination from Pachuca, where he scored nine goals in 22 matches. The fanbase now anxiously awaits the club’s decision.
- Recent history: Kennedy returned to Fluminense after a standout stint in Mexico, where he shone for Pachuca.
- Financial offer: The 6 million euros could enable Fluminense to invest in squad reinforcements.
- Contract status: Kennedy is tied to Fluminense until 2027, giving the club strong negotiating leverage.
- Fan sentiment: His potential departure sparks debate among supporters, torn between a sale and keeping him.
Under coach Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense sees the transfer as a chance to boost its finances but is wary of the technical impact of losing Kennedy. A decision is expected soon, with the club weighing market conditions and its 2025 plans.
John Kennedy’s journey at Fluminense
John Kennedy emerged as a top prospect from Fluminense’s Xerém academy. His career gained prominence in 2023 when, after a loan to Ferroviária for the Paulistão, he returned to become a key figure in the Libertadores triumph. His goal in extra time against Boca Juniors at Maracanã secured the historic title, cementing his place in Fluminense’s legacy. In 112 matches for the club, Kennedy has 21 goals and six assists, showcasing his potential despite inconsistent spells.
In 2024, Kennedy faced challenges. Off-field issues and subpar performances saw him drop to the fourth-choice striker, leading to a loan move to Pachuca in January 2025 for more playing time. The temporary transfer, which included a $6 million purchase option (around R$38 million), aimed to revitalize his career.
At Pachuca, Kennedy shone early, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in 22 games. His quick adaptation and goal-scoring prowess made him a fan favorite, earning the nickname “bear” for his physicality and presence. However, Pachuca’s elimination in the 2025 Clausura quarterfinals and the departure of coach Guillermo Almada marked a dip in form, with Kennedy losing his starting spot under new manager Jaime Lozano.
De acordo com notícias, John Kennedy está sendo vendido ao Shakhtar da Ucrânia.
— Flu Scout (@Scout_FFC) August 12, 2025
Tem 1 semana que o jogador renovou o contrato com o clube, o que não faz muito sentido.
Shakhtar agora possui vários atacantes, Flu podia tentar um empréstimo do Kauã Elias. pic.twitter.com/XGeHu0IFDA
Impactful stint at Pachuca
Kennedy’s time at Pachuca was a mix of highs and lows. Loaned out in early 2025, he quickly became a standout, scoring nine goals and adding two assists in 22 matches. His ability to deliver in clutch moments, including a run of five goals in four games, made him a hero among Pachuca fans, who gave him the number 10 jersey. His performances drew interest from European clubs, including Shakhtar Donetsk.
- Mexico stats: Nine goals and two assists in 22 games, with a strong start in the 2025 Clausura.
- Fan support: Kennedy, dubbed “bear,” became a social media sensation among Pachuca supporters.
- Coaching change: Jaime Lozano’s arrival saw Kennedy relegated to the bench.
- Club World Cup: Kennedy had limited impact, playing only in the second half of two matches.
Pachuca’s struggles, including a group-stage exit in the Club World Cup and the arrival of another Xerém product, Kenedy, led to Kennedy’s dissatisfaction. These factors prompted Fluminense to pay a fee to bring him back to Rio in July 2025.
Shakhtar Donetsk’s interest
Shakhtar Donetsk, known for scouting South American talents, sees John Kennedy as a promising addition for the 2025/2026 season. The 6 million euro offer aligns with the club’s strategy of signing young players with resale potential in Europe. At 23, with a contract until 2027, Kennedy is a valuable asset, particularly due to his experience in continental competitions and his knack for decisive moments, like the Libertadores goal.
The Ukrainian club, a UEFA Champions League regular, aims to bolster its attack with versatile, goal-scoring players. While the offer is attractive, Fluminense is considering whether an immediate sale is the best move, given Kennedy’s potential for further appreciation. The possible departure of Jhon Arias to Wolverhampton could also factor in, as Kennedy would be a natural replacement in the attack.
Fluminense’s reaction and next steps
Fluminense’s fanbase, deeply attached to Kennedy for his Libertadores heroics, is split. His status as the “King’s Kid” makes him a fan favorite, but some see the Shakhtar offer as a financial lifeline for the club, which faces economic challenges. President Mário Bittencourt and his team are carefully analyzing the proposal, weighing its technical and financial implications.
- Fan loyalty: Kennedy’s iconic goal against Boca Juniors has made him a beloved figure.
- Club strategy: Fluminense is juggling three competitions in 2025 and needs squad depth.
- Renato Gaúcho’s view: The coach values Kennedy but leaves the final call to the board.
- Ongoing talks: Fluminense may push for a higher fee or bonus clauses in negotiations.
A formal response from Fluminense is expected soon, with potential for further talks with Shakhtar. If the transfer falls through, Kennedy’s reintegration under Renato Gaúcho could see him regain his top form.
Transfer market and Kennedy’s outlook
John Kennedy’s appeal in Europe is not new. His Pachuca stint and Libertadores performances have drawn interest from smaller European clubs, but Shakhtar’s bid is the most concrete yet. At 23, Kennedy’s physicality, speed, and finishing make him a fit for European football. His long-term contract gives Fluminense leverage, but financial pressures could hasten a decision. Kennedy remains focused on the pitch while his representatives explore career options.
Fluminense’s transfer history
Fluminense has a strong track record of developing players who attract global interest. Alongside Kennedy, players like Jhon Arias and past stars like Richarlison and Thiago Silva have moved to Europe. Selling young talents is a key revenue stream, but it sparks debate about balancing competitiveness and finances.
- Notable transfers: Players like Richarlison and Thiago Silva moved to Europe for significant fees.
- Xerém’s legacy: Fluminense’s academy is among Brazil’s best, producing consistent talent.
- Financial strategy: Player sales fund infrastructure and new signings.
- Squad impact: Kennedy’s exit could require new attacking options.
Currently seventh in the Brasileirão with 20 points, Fluminense faces a packed schedule with critical matches ahead. The decision on Kennedy will shape the club’s 2025 season, especially with potential progress in the Copa do Brasil and Sudamericana.
