Sports
Flamengo Makes $30 Million Bid for Thiago Almada
The proposal for 50% of the midfielder's rights edges out River Plate and promises regular playing time amid European interest.
Flamengo has launched a $30 million bid to acquire 50% of Thiago Almada's economic rights from Atlético de Madrid. The offer surpasses River Plate's pursuit and positions the Brazilian club ahead of interest from Juventus and Inter Milan.
Flamengo has formalized a $30 million bid for 50% of the economic rights of Thiago Almada, the Atlético de Madrid midfielder. The update was reported by Argentine journalist César Luis Merlo. The player, who features for the Argentina national team, is the primary target for the Rio de Janeiro club's board to strengthen the squad.
In the video above, Bernardo Ramos analyzes the viability of the deal and breaks down the economic and sporting factors that give the Brazilian side significant leverage. The proposed fee would not be paid up front, but rather split into structured installments. Furthermore, Flamengo holds an edge over rival suitor River Plate thanks to greater purchasing power and established financial credibility in South America and abroad.
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Financial advantage and history with Atlético de Madrid
Additionally, the existing relationship between both boards works in the Brazilian club's favor. Flamengo previously dealt with the Spanish side during the transfer of Savarino, establishing direct lines of communication between the executives. In Ramos' assessment, Atlético de Madrid views doing business with Flamengo as considerably safer than with River Plate in terms of payment guarantees.
On the pitch in Madrid, manager Diego Simeone has predominantly used the Argentine playmaker as a rotational option off the bench. With squad competition from players like Baena and Simeone—and despite Antoine Griezmann's move to Orlando City—Almada has struggled to lock down an undisputed starting spot in Spain.
European competition and tactical fit
Despite inquiries from Italian heavyweights Juventus and Inter Milan, Ramos believes Flamengo presents a far more compelling sporting project for the next phase of the player's career. At Juventus, Kenan Yildiz and Francisco Conceição occupy primary roles in his position. At Inter Milan, reigning Serie A champions and recent Champions League runners-up against Paris Saint-Germain, a midfield featuring Nicolò Barella, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Petasucit leaves limited room for regular starting minutes.
As a result, the promise of a leading role in the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa Libertadores serves as Flamengo's biggest selling point. Journalist Mauro César had previously highlighted the strong rapport between the player's representatives and the Brazilian side. Tactically, Almada could operate off the left flank, creating space for overlapping full-backs like Ayrton Lucas or Alex Sandro and cementing Flamengo's ambitious statement in the international market.
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