Flamengo surprised by securing names with notable stints in European football
Flamengo made a splash in the mid-year transfer window with signings that generated significant international attention. The Rio de Janeiro club surprised by securing names with prominent European football pedigrees, drawing both surprise and praise from the specialized press.
The arrival of 26-year-old right-back Emerson Royal was made official this Saturday (July 26th), with a contract until December 2028. A product of the club’s own development and a recent stint at Tottenham, the player opted to return to Brazil despite advanced negotiations with Besiktas. Flamengo shelled out €9 million, with the possibility of bonuses for targets, beating out competition from Turkish football.
In addition to the defender, the club also signed Saúl Ñíguez. The Spanish midfielder, who was free on the market after his contract with Atlético Madrid expired, also considered playing in Turkey but was persuaded by Flamengo’s offer.
With these acquisitions, Flamengo strengthened its squad with two experienced names from the European scene. The club subsequently signed another player from Atlético Madrid: striker Samuel Lino. The deal was worth €22 million (approximately R$144 million), with clauses that could raise the transaction to €25 million (approximately R$163 million). With these fees, the player became one of the most expensive signings in the club’s history.
The international press responded immediately. French newspaper L’Équipe called Flamengo’s move an “excellent transfer window,” while Spanish newspaper Marca stated that the club “adds another important reinforcement to continue dominating Brazil and South America.” Argentina’s Sporting News website also praised the “Mais Querido” (The Most Beloved): “With millionaire reinforcements, the favorite to win the Libertadores becomes even stronger.”
