Flamengo remains steadfast in protecting its young talents, having decided to reject a multi-million dollar offer from the City Group for young defender João Victor, who was a standout during the mid-season training period.
Flamengo’s management has reiterated its commitment to valuing its homegrown talents by rejecting an official offer for defender João Victor. The City Group, known for scouting young talents worldwide, showed interest in the 19-year-old defender, offering 10 million euros — approximately R$ 58 million at the current exchange rate.
Despite the significant sum, the Rubro-Negro opted to keep the player in the squad. The European holding company intended to bring the player to one of its satellite clubs, aiming for his development in European football. According to information initially reported by the Ge portal, the bid was not enough to convince the coaching staff and the Rio de Janeiro-based club’s board.
Banking on Youth Academy Potential
João Victor’s performance during the mid-season training camp held in Portugal fueled the external interest. The defender started and received positive reviews in matches against River Plate, Lausanne, and Benfica. The club believes the player has even greater potential for appreciation and is an important piece for the future of the first team.
“The board understands that the defender has growth potential within the club,” highlights the football department, which prefers to develop the athlete before any definitive negotiation. The expectation, however, is that the City Group will insist on a new offer soon.
Previous Inquiries
This is not the first time João Victor’s name has stirred the transfer market. Late last year, Ajax, from the Netherlands, submitted an 8 million euro offer (approximately R$ 51 million at the time), which was also promptly rejected by Flamengo.
Besides being a promising talent for the Mais Querido, the player is the current captain of the Brazil U-20 national team, which is preparing for the 2027 South American Championship. With the player integrated into the coaching staff’s plans, Flamengo remains focused on the upcoming commitments of the season, confident that retaining its promising talents is the right path to sporting success.
