Flamengo set to shake up attack with surprise signing | OneFootball

Flamengo are on the verge of completing a deal for Irish winger Mikey Johnston, a move designed to inject fresh energy into the wide attacking positions, according to Lance and Express & Star. The Rio club’s pursuit has seen significant progress, with the signing expected to cost approximately £5 million (around R$37 million).

Johnston, 26, spent the last season at West Bromwich Albion in the English Championship, where he made 42 appearances—40 of them in the league—scoring three goals and supplying five assists. He played chiefly from the left but showed versatility across both flanks. The player’s profile as a fast, technically skilful winger has been endorsed by figures such as Robbie Keane, who described Johnston as “small and very fast,” adding, “He is skillful, a good player, improving. He could be a great player for a Brazilian club.”

Before his stint in England, Johnston featured prominently for Celtic, registering 93 matches, 13 goals, and 12 assists with the Glasgow side. His time in Portugal with Vitória de Guimarães during the 2022/23 campaign also broadened his experience. Across his club career, he has totalled 199 matches, 31 goals, and 26 assists, with a standout campaign at Celtic in 2023 where he scored seven times in just 20 appearances.

Flamengo’s move for Johnston has been in the works for some time, with the scouting department—led by football director José Boto—tracking his progress through previous seasons. Boto, familiar with Johnston’s development during his spell in Portugal, has given the green light for the acquisition.

The club’s strategy is not simply to add depth, but to prepare for possible changes in the squad, especially regarding wide attackers. The arrivals of Johnston and other potential signings are expected to create competition for existing wingers. Michael and Everton Cebolinha, both facing uncertain futures amid external interest and fluctuating roles under the current coaching staff, could be allowed to depart should suitable offers emerge.

This recruitment drive fits Flamengo’s broader approach in the transfer window: strengthening the attacking options while managing resources and staying responsive to interest in current squad members from abroad. Club leadership has emphasised a methodical approach—balancing financial considerations with the technical demands of competing in Brazil’s top flight.

With the transfer window approaching, Flamengo look set to finalise Johnston’s arrival soon, marking the beginning of what could be a period of notable changes on the flanks.

(Sources: Lance, Express & Star)

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