Flamengo scramble as Roma target key player and Saúl deal stalls | OneFootball

Flamengo’s transfer activity is drawing increased scrutiny as the squad faces critical departures and mounting injury concerns, with both fans and coach Filipe Luís expressing a sense of urgency over much-needed reinforcements, according to UOL and Lance.

The immediate focus is on right-back Wesley, who has received an offer from Roma and was left out of the derby against Fluminense amid uncertainty over his future. Filipe Luís acknowledged the emotional strain such situations place on a player, stating, “I’ve been in that position—there’s anxiety about what’s next, and it’s not just about football, it’s life. He made himself available to the team, but you can see his mind’s not fully on the game.”

Wesley’s possible exit amplifies an existing trend. Earlier this year, the team lost captain Gerson to Zenit and suffered an injury blow to Pulgar, whose foot fracture further thinned the core of the squad. Despite these changes, Flamengo’s only addition this window has been Jorginho, while negotiations continue for further reinforcements.

The pursuit of Colombian midfielder Jorge Carrascal from Dynamo Moscow is currently stalled due to demands from the player’s agent, who is seeking a larger personal compensation package. UOL states that while agreement on transfer fees and payment structure had been reached between clubs, the agent’s demands remain a final obstacle before an official announcement.

Meanwhile, the club is close to a deal for Saúl Ñíguez, the Atlético de Madrid midfielder with 427 appearances for the Spanish side, two La Liga titles, and a Europa League trophy to his name, as reported by Lance. Saúl spent last season on loan at Sevilla, contributing a goal and six assists in 24 La Liga appearances. His familiarity with manager Filipe Luís and teammate Jorginho from previous stints at Atlético and Chelsea could help his integration. If completed, the deal is expected to see Saúl released on a free transfer, with his contract at Atlético running until mid-2026.

Flamengo’s recent attempt to offload young talents Matheus Gonçalves and Victor Hugo also stalled, as the club vetoed their moves to Cruzeiro and Famalicão respectively. The decision to retain academy players reflects uncertainty over squad depth amid a busy and attritional calendar.

Filipe Luís emphasized that the club’s technical staff is working closely with management to target the right profiles, but acknowledged the slow pace of negotiations. “Of course, as a coach, I want new signings right away, but talks are often complicated. It’s up to the board, and meanwhile, I’ll keep working with the squad I have, which is a good one,” he said.

The need for reinforcements is clear, especially in midfield and full-back positions. The club had previously prioritized bringing in a central midfielder and an offensive player versatile enough to cover for Arrascaeta, but circumstances have forced Flamengo to accelerate and broaden recruitment efforts.

(Sources: UOL, Lance)

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