Key Flamengo trio at risk of exit as contract stand-offs heat up | OneFootball

Flamengo approach the second half of 2024 with their attention divided between high-stakes competitions and crucial contract decisions that could reshape their squad for the upcoming season. Of particular urgency are the situations of three players whose deals are set to expire at the end of the year, leaving them eligible to negotiate pre-contract agreements with other clubs from July.

Goalkeeper Matheus Cunha, and centre-backs Cleiton and Pablo, all see their current contracts running down, and each case presents unique challenges for club management. Matheus Cunha and Cleiton remain part of coach Filipe Luís’s core group, featuring regularly in matchday squads, while Pablo has slid to the periphery. Utilised mainly during Flamengo's early state championship fixtures—when the main squad was abroad—Pablo has since been encouraged to seek a new club, though he has yet to attract formal offers and is expected to see out his contract.

The club’s efforts to secure continuity have seen mixed results. While Flamengo successfully renewed midfielder Erick Pulgar’s contract earlier this year and are close to finalising an agreement with right-back Guillermo Varela — overcoming initial financial disagreements — negotiations with Cleiton have stalled. Although Flamengo indicated in February a willingness to extend the 21-year-old defender’s deal, progress halted after Cleiton and his representatives received interest from European sides, casting uncertainty over his future in Rio.

With the July threshold approaching, Matheus Cunha, Cleiton and Pablo will soon be free to engage with other clubs, potentially departing on free transfers at the end of December. The looming risk underscores a challenging balancing act for Flamengo: maintaining squad depth for a demanding calendar while avoiding the loss of assets without compensation.

Flamengo’s directorate is understood to still be hopeful of reaching a positive outcome with Cleiton, but timing and outside interest could prove decisive. Meanwhile, Varela’s renewal appears set to progress, following the resolution of salary and contract length issues; the Uruguayan’s agent is due to meet with club officials to complete the process soon.

As Flamengo push for trophies and prepare for the Club World Cup, the club’s front office faces the parallel task of managing player contracts to safeguard both on-field performance and future squad value — a theme that could shape the months ahead in Gávea.

Source: Globo

Photo by Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images