Flamengo is making a strong push in the transfer market and challenging River Plate for the signing of attacking midfielder Thiago Almada, currently linked to Atlético de Madrid.
Activity behind the scenes at Gávea is intense. Seeking significant reinforcements for the remainder of the season, Flamengo has officially declared its interest in Thiago Almada, a star for the Argentine national team. The Rio de Janeiro club now emerges as River Plate‘s main competitor in the pursuit of the player, who currently plays for Atlético de Madrid.
The red-and-black management remains optimistic about the feasibility of the deal. Flamengo‘s trump card lies in its financial capacity, superior to that of its Argentine rival, a factor that could influence Almada‘s final decision. Even so, the club is keeping its feet on the ground, assuring that it will not engage in bidding wars that go beyond the budget set by the football department.
Caution and skepticism regarding competition
Although the Argentine press, specifically the newspaper “Olé,” has reported a supposed agreement between the player and River Plate, Flamengo’s leadership adopts a skeptical tone. In recent statements to Coluna do Fla, director José Boto cast doubt on the progress of the Buenos Aires club’s negotiations.
“They said River Plate made an offer for him now. But is it true that he’s going there? I’m not sure. Almada is one of many players who could fit Flamengo. Now, for him to come, the conditions must be right.”
The World Cup factor and the future
Thiago Almada‘s staff maintains a stance of not defining the attacking midfielder’s future while the World Cup is ongoing. The player is fully focused on the competition, and any real progress in negotiations is expected to occur only after the global tournament concludes.
On the European side, Atlético de Madrid does not intend to hinder his departure, provided the offered amount compensates for their investment. The Spanish club paid approximately 21 million euros (around R$ 135 million) for the player in 2025 and expects a strong World Cup performance from Almada to increase his market value. Flamengo remains attentive, monitoring the situation and ready to act at the opportune moment, promising to further stir up the South American transfer market.
