The complex negotiations for midfielder Thiago Almada have stalled Flamengo’s plans, leaving the club likely to face Cruzeiro in the Copa Libertadores Round of 16 without any new reinforcements.
Flamengo’s pursuit of high-profile signings for the remainder of the 2026 season has hit a significant hurdle. The board’s total focus on signing Thiago Almada has effectively frozen the club’s transfer market strategy, making it highly unlikely that any new players will be registered before the deadline set by CONMEBOL for the Libertadores Round of 16.
With the cutoff date for roster changes scheduled for this coming Saturday (8th), manager Leonardo Jardim is expected to move forward with his current squad for the decisive clash against Cruzeiro. This scenario frustrates hopes for new additions meant to address specific gaps in the team, especially after football director José Boto traveled to Buenos Aires to attempt to break the deadlock.
The negotiation impasse
Flamengo’s strategy of centering their efforts on Thiago Almada ended up stalling other moves in the transfer market. Although the club has remained optimistic, competition from River Plate and the player’s indecision—as he prioritizes a return to Argentine football for family reasons—have complicated the outcome.
Leonardo Jardim stated:
“The Portuguese director made a point of clarifying that Flamengo will not enter a bidding war for the player.”
While the proposal from the Argentine club faces difficulties regarding financial guarantees, the Rubro-Negro maintains its cautious stance, avoiding inflating the cost of the operation.
Tactical impact and the future in the Libertadores
For manager Leonardo Jardim, the arrival of a midfielder was an absolute priority to provide an alternative to Arrascaeta, who has been dealing with recurring physical issues. Beyond the playmaker role, the manager requested reinforcements for the attack, specifically a center-forward and a winger—positions the coaching staff considers crucial for success in the continental competition.
Leonardo Jardim stated:
“The board is racing against time to finalize reinforcements this week, but it is unlikely they will be available for the Round of 16.”
Flamengo takes the field against Cruzeiro on the 12th at 9:30 PM at the Mineirão, with the second leg taking place at the Maracanã the following week. Should they overcome their opponents from Minas Gerais, the board will be able to make up to five new changes to the squad list for the quarterfinals, keeping hopes alive of strengthening the team for the quest for a fifth Libertadores title. Players like Luiz Henrique remain on the radar, but the complexity involving Zenit keeps the situation uncertain.
