Flamengo targets Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada amid River Plate competition

Brazilian club Flamengo has laid out a financial strategy to acquire 25‑year‑old Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada, who is currently owned by Atlético Madrid. River Plate reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Atlético Madrid to buy 50 % of Almada’s economic rights for around €20 million (≈ R$ 117 million), but the deal is stalled by a U.S. bank that financed the original transfer and now requires additional guarantees.

Flamengo believes it can meet those guarantees and offer a more attractive payment schedule, positioning itself as a viable alternative to River Plate. Almada, a key player for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, has said his priority is to remain in Europe, yet a lack of European offers has prompted him to consider a return to South America. After rejecting an initial approach from Flamengo in June, Almada appears more open to discussions.

Director of football José Boto has publicly questioned the certainty of the River Plate offer, while Flamengo emphasizes its financial readiness to satisfy Atlético Madrid’s conditions. The final decision is expected only after the World Cup concludes, when Almada can choose between European interest and a potential move to Flamengo.