Why Flamengo refused Brazil's biggest star | OneFootball

Speculation around Neymar’s possible move to Flamengo reached a boiling point this week after claims circulated from journalist and influencer Gabriel Reis, known as “Paparazzo Rubro-Negro.” Reis alleged that representatives close to Neymar made contact with Flamengo’s main sponsor, reviving earlier discussions from the start of the year about a short-term move. According to the report, Neymar’s camp inquired about the terms of a six-month contract with Flamengo, akin to his current arrangement at Santos, which lasts until June 30.

Reis asserted that people in Neymar’s entourage asked the sponsor whether the possibility of bringing the forward to Flamengo was still viable. He suggested the player preferred to stay in Rio, citing Flamengo’s superior facilities and structure. Reis went on to claim that while the idea initially attracted enthusiasm from the sponsoring company, Flamengo’s football director José Boto unequivocally dismissed the notion, maintaining that the club had no plans to pursue Neymar, as was the case earlier in the year.

The story gained traction when Reis stated, “He wanted six months of contract, could be with Flamengo, could be Santos… In the end, he closed with Santos because Flamengo never wanted it, and they still don’t.” He also insisted that Neymar’s team, having received no encouragement from Flamengo, would now try to deny the situation. Reis maintained he had proof, adding, “The screenshot is eternal.”

Neymar wasted little time in responding directly through his social media channels. Rejecting the rumors outright, the forward wrote, “I’m very sad to see that anyone can say whatever they want just to get more hype! I think journalists should take much more care with their profession—it’s getting worse every day.” Neymar’s statement made clear his frustration with the wave of unfounded rumors and his intent to quash the Flamengo speculation.

For the moment, Neymar’s focus remains on his commitments with Santos. He is under contract with the club until June 30, with negotiations for a possible renewal only set to advance after June 12. Until then, he is expected to feature in two more fixtures for Santos: first against Botafogo, and then Fortaleza.

As for Flamengo, the club’s leadership remains firm: there are no plans to pursue Neymar, and negotiations are not in progress. This stance matches previous reports from the start of the year and underlines Flamengo’s current squad priorities and approach to the transfer market, regardless of speculation brought about by third parties.

Source: Lance