Flamengo confident of signing Gabriel Barbosa from Inter Milan | OneFootball

Flamengo are close to signing Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa on a permanent deal from Inter Milan.

Barbosa, who scored 43 goals on loan with the Rubro-Negro in 2019, has been linked with a host of European clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham.

However, Flamengo vice-president Marcos Braz has suggested the Brazilian and Copa Libertadores champions are poised to pip the London sides to Gabigol’s signature.

Speaking to reporters, Braz said: “I think we are on the right track, we have made good purchases. We will make these announcements and more next week.

“We can compete for the various titles again, although I don’t want to make any promises, like I didn’t at the beginning of last year.

“And, of course, everyone’s eyes are on Gabriel Barbosa, with whom the deal from Inter seems to be very close.”

Meanwhile, Flamengo opened their Carioca 2020 Championship campaign on Saturday with a disappointing 0-0 draw away to Macaé.

Midfielder Hugo Moura came closest to scoring for the visitors on the stroke of half time when his fierce drive was deflected wide off the foot of Macaé goalkeeper Jonathan.