Flamengo hit a wall in search for their new striker | OneFootball

Flamengo’s plans to bring Lucas Beltrán to Rio have stalled, with the striker making it clear he intends to remain in Europe, according to Lance. The club’s directors, having already secured high-profile signings including Saúl, Emerson Royal, Samuel Lino, and Carrascal, had advanced talks with Fiorentina for the 24-year-old Argentine. Flamengo were prepared to meet the Italian club’s €15 million valuation, but the negotiations ultimately broke down over Beltrán’s reluctance to leave European football at this stage of his career.

Beltrán, who moved from River Plate to Fiorentina in 2023, has adapted well in Italy. After a debut campaign of 51 matches with 10 goals and two assists, he continued to contribute in his second season, playing 47 matches and registering six goals and five assists. Initially known as a traditional number nine, Beltrán has increasingly operated in deeper creative roles for Fiorentina, showing a more versatile side to his game.

Flamengo had identified Beltrán as a forward capable of offering a different dynamic in attack compared to Pedro, seeking someone with greater mobility and involvement in link-up play. While club officials intensified efforts to convince the player throughout negotiations, his firm stance prevented a deal from materializing.

With a deal for Beltrán now off the table, Flamengo’s search for an attack-minded signing continues. The club previously showed interest in Lazio’s Taty Castellanos, though the Italian side dismissed any possibility of a transfer. Another profile considered was Mehdi Taremi, now at Inter Milan, but he was instead offered elsewhere within Brazil.

Flamengo remain intent on adding a more versatile forward who can both finish and contribute to buildup, especially as they look to strengthen attacking options in a busy season following their summer recruitment drive.

(Source: Lance)

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