Forward Joaquin Freitas, a promising talent in Argentine soccer, has arrived in Rio de Janeiro to join Flamengo. His arrival marks the club’s second signing of this transfer window.
Flamengo is on the verge of finalizing an important deal to strengthen its squad. The 19-year-old forward Joaquin Freitas landed this Monday morning (31) at Galeão Airport in Rio de Janeiro to complete the final steps of his transfer from River Plate (ARG) to the Rio-based club.
Expectations for the new arrival are high, given his potential and the team’s urgent need for reinforcements this season.
Before traveling to Brazil, Freitas bid an emotional farewell to River Plate, the club where he was developed and for which he expressed deep gratitude. His move to the Rubro-Negro represents a new phase in his career, driven by a desire for quick adaptation and the ambition to win major titles in South American soccer.
Emotional Farewell and New Goals
In his final statements while still on Argentine soil, Joaquin Freitas expressed how much he values his time at River Plate. He highlighted the importance of the fans and the club in his development.
The forward stated:
The truth is that I think everything was very positive; I enjoyed it a lot. The fans, the club, everything—I am very grateful. And now it’s time to enjoy this opportunity. It happened very quickly, but well, these are things that happen in soccer, and that’s it: enjoy everything.
With his sights set on the challenges ahead, the player appeared determined to integrate into the team as soon as possible. His goal is to earn minutes on the pitch and contribute to Flamengo’s success, with the dream of lifting a trophy in his very first season.
Freitas concluded:
I want to adapt as quickly as possible, to get the minutes I want and expect, and if I can win a title, that would be welcome.
Versatility on the Pitch
Upon his arrival, Joaquin Freitas also addressed his preferred position, emphasizing his tactical flexibility. The young athlete is ready to play wherever the team needs him.
The new signing highlighted:
Wherever I’m needed to help. I’m coming here to contribute however I can. If it’s as a center-forward, then as a center-forward; if it’s on the wing, on the wing; as a midfielder, as a midfielder—the important thing is to contribute.
This versatility is a valuable asset for Flamengo, which is seeking strategic options for the squad in a demanding calendar.
Rubro-Negro Connections
At Flamengo, Joaquin Freitas will have the opportunity to play alongside goalkeeper Agustín Rossi, his countryman. He will also reunite with Nico De La Cruz, his former teammate at River Plate. Although the transition was fast, preventing prior contact, the forward plans to connect with them soon.
Freitas explained:
I haven’t been able to speak with them. Actually, I didn’t have the chance because, as I said, everything happened very quickly. But now, when I arrive, I will get in touch.
Financial Details of the Negotiation
The transaction bringing Joaquin Freitas to Flamengo involves significant figures. According to information from the M360 Team and the channel Paparazzo Rubro-Negro, the Rio club will pay 7 million euros (equivalent to R$ 42 million) to River Plate.
With this investment, the Rubro-Negro will acquire 80% of the promising player’s economic rights, solidifying its commitment to the future of the transfer market.
Next Steps and Libertadores Challenge
Following his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, Joaquin Freitas’s schedule includes a series of medical exams. Once cleared, the forward will sign his pre-contract and be officially presented as a new Flamengo player.
The club is working to expedite the paperwork so that Freitas can be registered and available for the Libertadores quarterfinals, where Flamengo will face Independiente Del Valle (EQU). The player’s quick integration will be crucial for the team’s ambitions in the continental competition.
