Flamengo is once again emerging as a key player in the transfer market, with the potential to secure the signing of Thiago Almada and solidify a strategic partnership with Atlético de Madrid.
The transfer market has heated up following the conclusion of the World Cup, and Atlético de Madrid is desperately looking to overhaul its squad for the upcoming season. To make new investments possible, the Colchoneros need to make strategic sales, and Flamengo is once again appearing as the ideal partner to resolve the Spanish club’s financial and sporting needs.
The name currently in the spotlight is Argentine attacking midfielder Thiago Almada. Finding no place under manager Diego Simeone and frustrated by a lack of playing time, the player has become a negotiable asset for the Madrid-based club. A potential move to the Gávea would benefit all parties: the Rubro-Negro gains a marquee signing, while the Spanish side balances its books.
A history of success between the clubs
This relationship between Flamengo and Atlético de Madrid is nothing new and has already proven beneficial for both sides. In July 2025, the Rio de Janeiro club played a crucial role by signing Saúl Ñíguez and Samuel Lino, two players who were no longer part of Simeone‘s plans at the Metropolitano.
Regarding Saúl‘s transfer, the influence of Filipe Luís was decisive. As those close to the negotiations highlighted: “The Spanish midfielder gave up on playing in Turkey thanks to the possibility of joining the Brazilian giant and being coached by Filipe Luís, who was his teammate with the Colchoneros.”
The case of Samuel Lino is emblematic. The forward was looking for a leading role, and after being signed by Flamengo for 22 million euros, he saw his career take off. His success in Brazilian football was so significant that the 26-year-old was even called up to the Brazil national team, confirming the effectiveness of the Rubro-Negro’s sporting project.
Thiago Almada’s situation
Currently, Atlético de Madrid is in a race against time. With the arrival of new signings, such as Alejandro Grimaldo and Morten Hjulmand, the club needs to sell Thiago Almada to free up budget space. Flamengo is signaling a 25 million euro bid, offering payment terms superior to those of River Plate.
Although the 25-year-old player would prefer to stay in Europe, the lack of competitive offers on the Old Continent makes a return to South America a likely reality. The strong business relationship between the Rubro-Negro board and the Spanish executives, coupled with the Brazilian club’s track record as a reliable payer, puts Mais Querido at an advantage in the race for the midfielder.
The outcome of these negotiations could dictate the pace of the South American transfer market in the coming days. For the fans, the anticipation remains to see another elite talent wearing the Manto Sagrado, upholding Flamengo‘s tradition as an absolute protagonist during international transfer windows.
