SportsEye
·3. August 2025
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·3. August 2025
Flamengo's 2025 transfer business has positioned the club as the foremost power-broker in the Brazilian market, according to recent reporting by Globo and an analysis of European media summarized by Lance. Following a series of headline-grabbing deals, including the acquisitions of Samuel Lino and Jorge Carrascal, the Rio giants are setting new benchmarks both for spending and ambition in South American football.
Samuel Lino's return from Atlético de Madrid stands out as Flamengo’s centerpiece signing. The left winger, who will remain at the club until 2029, cost a potential €24 million—€22 million fixed plus €2 million in possible bonuses. This figure makes Lino the most expensive player acquisition in Flamengo’s history, eclipsing earlier records and underlining the club’s willingness to compete financially with top clubs from other continents. Lino, who originally rose through Flamengo’s youth ranks before moving to Europe, is expected to slot straight into the starting eleven.
The high spending didn’t stop there. Flamengo also completed the €12 million signing of Colombian playmaker Jorge Carrascal from Dynamo Moscow. The deal, which involved a complicated multi-club payment structure, further bolsters the squad’s creative options. European outlets, as cited by Lance, have highlighted Flamengo’s distinct economic muscle, with the recruitment of experienced names such as Emerson Royal, Saúl Ñíguez, and Jorginho in addition to Lino and Carrascal. The club’s spending spree has reportedly drawn envy and curiosity from across the Atlantic, with analysts pointing to the club’s healthy finances stemming from academy player sales—most notably the departures of Vinicius Júnior, Reinier, Wesley, and Gerson, as well as strong FIFA prize money from Club World Cup runs.
Despite this activity, Flamengo aren’t finished yet. Globo reports that the front office is actively seeking a new center-forward to provide a profile different from current starter Pedro. Fiorentina’s Lucas Beltrán has emerged as the top target, although a deal remains distant with the player currently preferring to remain in Europe. Club insiders indicate there may be up to €15 million more to commit to the right deal before the September 2 window closes.
The influx of high-profile arrivals is not without potential pitfalls. As observed by Spanish media referenced in Lance, Flamengo risks crowding out homegrown talent, potentially undermining the very youth system that has funded its current era. This balancing act—between short-term silverware and long-term sustainability—will be closely watched by supporters and rivals alike.
Regardless, Flamengo’s aggressive recruitment—both confirmed and planned—places the club front and center in discussions of Brazilian football’s power dynamics for 2025. With significant resources committed and marquee names incoming, expectations at the Maracanã are higher than ever. (Sources: Globo, Lance)