Flamengo officially announced the transfer of promising player Alan Santos on Monday (24). The homegrown forward is heading to Portugal’s Benfica in a strategic negotiation.
Flamengo confirmed the departure of forward Alan Santos on Monday morning (24). The young player, who had been closely watched by the club’s fanbase after standing out in the youth academy, accepted Benfica (POR)’s offer and will begin his European football journey.
The transaction marks a new stage in the promising player’s career, as he joins the Portuguese club with the goal of integrating into the U-23 squad and seeking opportunities in the first team.
Agreement Between Flamengo and Benfica
The negotiation involving Alan Santos was concluded with no immediate costs for Benfica. However, Mais Querido secured an important clause in the contract: the Rio de Janeiro-based club retains 50% of the player’s economic rights.
This way, Mengão ensures participation in any potential future sale of the player, capitalizing on the forward’s development potential in the European market.
The Player’s Words
Upon arriving in Lisbon and undergoing his first training sessions, Alan Santos did not hide his excitement about the new challenge. The player highlighted the stature of his new club and the family support he received during his development.
Alan Santos stated:
It’s the biggest in Portugal. I’m very happy to wear this jersey. It’s an enormous pleasure to be here at Benfica. Over the season, Benfica fans will see my quality, they will enjoy it, and they will know who Alan Santos is.
Trajectory and Stats at Rubro-Negro
Although he did not establish himself as a starter for the professional team, Alan Santos gained valuable experience. The player participated in three official matches for Flamengo at the beginning of this season, during the Campeonato Carioca.
Furthermore, the forward was a key player in the runner-up campaign of the U-20 Copa Libertadores, where he stood out as the player with the most goal involvements in the entire competition, with three goals and one assist.
Alan Santos‘ departure reinforces Flamengo‘s trend of selling talents from its youth categories to international football, while retaining percentages that could generate future profits. The expectation now is on how the forward will adapt to Portuguese football under Benfica‘s management.
