Luiz Henrique to Flamengo: Zenit Transfer Talks Stall

Russian outlet Bombardier reported that winger Luís Henrique was on his way out of Zenit and that fresh negotiations with Flamengo were underway. However, reporting from Bernardo Ramos indicates that talks have not resumed and the matter is currently considered closed.

In the video above, Bernardo Ramos breaks down the financial aspects of the potential move and assesses the Rubro-Negro squad under manager Leonardo Jardim. The core obstacle remains Zenit's stance: backed by energy giant Gazprom, the Russian side demands €35 million paid upfront in full. Flamengo attempted to spread the fee over two years across its 2027 and 2028 budgets. Faced with Zenit's refusal to negotiate terms and lacking funds for an immediate lump-sum payment, the player's camp pulled out of discussions.

Squad Performance and Attacking Options

Context: Luís Henrique—developed at Fluminense before starring at Botafogo in 2024—hoped to see his value rise ahead of the World Cup while at Zenit. The winger earned a call-up to the Brazil national team under manager Carlo Ancelotti, making an appearance against Morocco, but did not secure a consistent run. In Ramos's view, while he would add depth on the right wing, the current roster already provides productive, reliable options.

In the win over Mirassol, Luís Araújo put in a standout performance, scoring off an assist from Carrascal, who also created key chances operating through the middle. On the left flank, Plata created space for overlapping runs by Ayrton Lucas. For Ramos, the priority for the squad is maintaining consistent form rather than making massive expenditures when players like Luís Araújo and Carrascal are already delivering on the pitch.