With meta description integrated: Everton confirmed, on May 29, 2025, the permanent signing of 22-year-old midfielder Carlos Alcaraz for 15 million euros (£86 million), ending Flamengo’s plans to retain the Argentine after his loan spell. The decision, made before the May 31 deadline, followed negotiations for a new contract with the player, who featured in 17 Premier League games. Flamengo, which invested £110 million in 2024, aims to use the funds to bolster its squad for the Club World Cup. The deal includes up to 3 million euros in performance-based bonuses.
The announcement surprised Flamengo fans, as Alcaraz was considered a key squad member. The transfer marks the end of his brief but notable stint with the Brazilian club.
Key points of the deal:
- Base fee of 15 million euros (£86 million).
- Potential 3 million euros in add-ons.
- Deadline for the buyout clause was May 31, 2025.
- Alcaraz signed a new contract with Everton.
Charly Alcaraz, Alcaraz 🎶 pic.twitter.com/F3cMglFI5e
— Everton (@Everton) May 25, 2025
Transfer details
The agreement between Everton and Flamengo adhered to the terms of the 2024 loan contract. Everton had until May 31 to activate the purchase option, and the decision was communicated days earlier. The 15 million euro fee will see Flamengo recoup roughly 78% of its initial investment.
The deal also includes 3 million euros in bonuses tied to milestones like appearances, goals, or team achievements. The transfer’s completion awaits only the finalization of Alcaraz’s new contract with Everton, which is in its closing stages.
Alcaraz’s time at Flamengo
Carlos Alcaraz joined Flamengo in August 2024 from Southampton for 20 million dollars (£110 million at the time). The signing set a club record as Flamengo’s most expensive acquisition. In 19 appearances for the Rubro-Negro, he scored three goals and provided two assists, solid but below some fans’ expectations.
The midfielder stood out for his versatility, playing both as a playmaker and in deeper roles. His tenure, however, was hampered by injuries and competition with club icon Arrascaeta.
Performance in the Premier League
At Everton, Alcaraz featured in 17 matches during the 2024/2025 Premier League season, starting seven. Although he fell short of the nine starts required to trigger a mandatory purchase clause, Everton opted to keep him. He contributed one goal and two assists, showing signs of adapting to English football.
Highlights of Alcaraz’s performance:
- Averaged 62 minutes per game.
- 85% pass accuracy.
- Received three yellow cards.
- Contributed to 12% of Everton’s goals in his appearances.
Flamengo’s investment and strategy
Alcaraz’s sale allows Flamengo to recover a significant portion of its 2024 investment. The club plans to channel the £86 million into signing a new midfielder for the 2025 Club World Cup. The priority is to find a player to complement Arrascaeta, who played over 50 matches last season and needs support to manage fatigue.
Flamengo is scouting talents in South America and Europe, with no confirmed targets yet. The transfer window, reopening in July, will be pivotal for the club’s plans.
Flamengo’s transfer history
Flamengo has made waves in Brazil’s transfer market with big-money signings. Beyond Alcaraz, the club spent £54 million on Vitinho in 2018 and £72 million on Everton Cebolinha in 2022. Alcaraz’s sale joins high-profile deals like Vinicius Jr.’s 45 million euro move to Real Madrid in 2018.
The club’s approach balances heavy spending with strategic sales to maintain financial stability. Alcaraz’s transfer, though yielding less than the initial outlay, is seen as a sound financial move given his short stint.
Everton’s negotiations
Everton held direct talks with Alcaraz to finalize his salary and contract length before confirming the purchase. The player, already settled in Liverpool, expressed a desire to stay in the Premier League. His new deal runs until 2029, with an option to extend.
The decision underscores Everton’s belief in Alcaraz’s potential at age 22. The Toffees, who finished mid-table in 2024/2025, aim to strengthen their squad to compete for European spots.
Fan reactions
Alcaraz’s departure sparked varied responses among Flamengo fans. On social media, some praised his technical ability and lamented his exit, while others supported the sale, citing the funds’ potential to fuel new signings.
Common fan sentiments:
- Praise for Alcaraz’s vision and passing.
- Criticism of his slow adaptation to Brazil.
- Excitement for Club World Cup reinforcements.
- Approval of Flamengo’s financial strategy.
Premier League transfer trends
Alcaraz’s transfer aligns with a busy Premier League market, where mid-tier clubs like Everton target young South American talents to rival top teams like Manchester City and Liverpool. Other Argentine stars, such as Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, also shine in the league.
Everton has a track record of South American signings, including Richarlison, formerly of Fluminense, sold in 2022. Keeping Alcaraz reinforces this approach.
Flamengo’s next moves
With the sale proceeds, Flamengo is gearing up for the second half of 2025, with the Club World Cup in the United States as the main target. The board is focused on squad reinforcements without jeopardizing financial discipline, a hallmark of recent management.
The search for a new midfielder involves scouting in Europe and South America. Players like Claudinho of Zenit and emerging Argentine talents are under consideration, though no deals are confirmed.
Everton’s outlook
Everton views Alcaraz as a cornerstone of its midfield for the upcoming season. The club, which faced financial challenges in recent years, sees the Argentine as a long-term investment. Manager Sean Dyche, who endorsed the signing, played a key role in the decision.
Alcaraz will join Everton’s pre-season in July, with expectations of increased playing time in the Premier League and FA Cup.
Transfer market insights
The 2025 transfer market, particularly in the Premier League, has seen hefty spending. Alcaraz’s fee, while notable, pales compared to deals like Moisés Caicedo’s 115 million pound move to Chelsea in 2023. Still, Everton’s investment highlights the growing value of South American players in Europe.
Market trends:
- Premier League spent 2.3 billion pounds in 2024.
- South Americans account for 18% of signings.
- Average age of new players is 24.
- Versatile midfielders are a priority for clubs.
