Flamengo gamble on Wesley as injury crisis deepens | OneFootball

Flamengo have announced their squad list for Wednesday night’s away fixture against Red Bull Bragantino, opting to include right back Wesley despite his advanced transfer negotiations with Roma, according to Globo. The 21-year-old, who was left on the bench in the previous win over Fluminense as talks with the Italian club accelerated, remains available for selection while the club pushes to secure a replacement in his position before greenlighting his departure.

The club continues to face significant absences due to injury. Head coach Filipe Luís will be without Danilo, Plata, Alex Sandro, Ayrton Lucas, Michael, and Pulgar, all sidelined by physical problems. In addition, midfielder Allan drops out of the squad with a foot injury, specifically plantar fasciitis, as Flamengo pursue a conservative load management approach. Nicolás De la Cruz continues his recovery process and remains unavailable.

Bruno Henrique returns from suspension and bolsters the attacking options, giving Flamengo a needed lift as they seek to maintain pace in the Brasileirão. With the roster stretched by injuries and absences, Filipe Luís has called up several youth players from the under-20 squad. Youngsters such as right back Daniel Sales, midfielders Guilherme and João Alves, frequent squad member Wallace Yan, and forward Pedro Leão have all been drafted in for the trip to Bragança Paulista.

In the background, negotiation over Wesley’s transfer dominates off-pitch discussions. Globo reports that Roma has agreed on terms with the player, with Wesley expected to sign a five-year deal in Italy. Flamengo president Bap is holding out on completing the transfer until a suitable Brazilian replacement is secured, a move that has intensified the club's search for a new right back this week. Technical staff members had already anticipated Wesley’s likely departure following the January window, given earlier failed transfer opportunities. Filipe Luís acknowledged the strain on the player, saying, “I’ve been through this situation. There’s a lot on his mind. He’s anxious, but ready to play if needed.”

Kick-off is scheduled for 21:30 local time in Bragança Paulista, where Flamengo will look to manage both their squad rotation and ongoing uncertainty in the transfer market.

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