Flamengo is negotiating the signing of Noah Okafor, a 25-year-old Swiss striker from Milan, to reinforce its squad for the 2025 season, focusing on the Club World Cup and domestic competitions. Talks with the Italian club are progressing, while Besiktas, from Turkey, also shows interest with a loan proposal. Prioritizing Flamengo’s offer, Milan is considering a permanent transfer for the player, who has been on loan at Napoli since February 2025. The pursuit of reinforcements reflects Flamengo’s strategy to enhance its attacking efficiency, following criticism of some players’ performances. Okafor’s market value, estimated at 15 million euros, aligns with the financial limits set by the club’s board.
The interest in the player comes at a critical moment for the Rio-based club. With the arrival of Jorginho, former Arsenal midfielder, the board now focuses on improving the attack’s effectiveness. Noah Okafor, known for his versatility, is seen as a key piece capable of playing as a center-forward or on the wings, offering tactical flexibility to the coach.
The negotiation, however, faces competition. Besiktas, a Turkish club, has submitted a loan proposal, but Milan appears more inclined to close a permanent deal with Flamengo. The player, who had a discreet stint at Napoli, seeks to regain prominence in a new environment.
- Key attractions of Okafor for Flamengo:
- Versatility to play multiple attacking positions.
- Experience in European competitions, including the Champions League.
- Young age, with potential for future resale value.
Noah Okafor’s profile
Born in Binningen, Switzerland, Noah Okafor began his career in FC Basel’s youth academy, where he stood out for his speed and skill. In 2018, he signed his first professional contract with the Swiss club, scoring his first goal in the Super League at 18. His time at Basel included 72 matches, with nine goals and several promising performances, which caught the attention of Red Bull Salzburg.
At the Austrian club, Okafor enjoyed his peak form. Between 2020 and 2023, he played 110 matches, scoring 34 goals and providing 19 assists. His ability to dribble and finish accurately made him a standout, especially in the Champions League, where he scored against opponents like Sevilla and Milan.
His transfer to Milan in 2023, for 15.5 million euros, marked his arrival at a top-tier league. However, competition within the Rossoneri squad limited his opportunities. In 53 matches for the Italian club, Okafor scored seven goals and provided five assists, modest figures for a player of his potential.
Stint at Napoli
In February 2025, Okafor was loaned to Napoli, the Serie A leader, to replace star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who moved to Paris Saint-Germain. Expectations were high for the Swiss to get more playing time, but his stint was marked by challenges. Muscle injuries and strong competition in Napoli’s squad resulted in just four appearances, totaling 36 minutes on the pitch.
Napoli, which paid 1.5 million euros for the loan, has an option to buy for 23.5 million euros, but Italian media indicates the club is unlikely to exercise it. Okafor’s lack of game time and physical issues weighed on the decision, opening the door for clubs like Flamengo and Besiktas.
Flamengo’s strategy
Led by José Boto, Flamengo’s board adopts a cautious approach in the transfer market. After investments in players like Jorginho, the club seeks reinforcements that balance quality and financial feasibility. Okafor’s market value of around 15 million euros (R$ 95.3 million) fits this philosophy, especially considering potential sales of players like Gerson, which could generate significant revenue.
Flamengo sees Okafor as a solution to recent criticism of its attacking sector. Players like Michael, Everton Cebolinha, and Bruno Henrique face fan scrutiny, increasing pressure for a dynamic and efficient striker. The Swiss player’s versatility, able to play as a left winger or center-forward, is a tactical advantage for the team.
- Flamengo’s goals with the signing:
- Strengthen the attack for the Club World Cup.
- Boost competitiveness in the Brasileirão and Libertadores.
- Invest in a player with resale potential.
- Address the team’s offensive inconsistency.
Competition with Besiktas
While Flamengo negotiates a permanent transfer, Besiktas bets on a loan model, which may be less appealing to Milan. The Turkish club, known for targeting young European talents, sees Okafor as a chance to bolster its squad for the Süper Lig and continental competitions. However, Milan’s preference for Flamengo suggests a desire for a deal that ensures immediate financial return.
Okafor’s decision will also be pivotal. After an inconsistent season, the player seeks a club where he can play regularly and rediscover his best form. Flamengo, with its global visibility and demanding schedule, may be a more attractive destination than Besiktas, especially given the ambitious project for 2025.
Successful European career
Before joining Milan, Okafor built a solid career in Europe. At Basel, he was key to winning the 2019 Swiss Cup, scoring in the semifinal against Zürich. At Salzburg, he shone in the Champions League, with decisive goals that helped the club make history as the first Austrian team to reach the tournament’s round of 16.
His flair in big matches was evident in 2022, when he scored a memorable goal against Milan at San Siro in the Champions League group stage. His dribble past Pierre Kalulu and precise shot into the bottom corner earned praise from European media. These moments highlight Okafor’s potential, despite his recent dip in form.
Challenges at Flamengo
If the transfer materializes, Okafor will face the pressure of playing for one of the world’s most popular clubs. Flamengo’s demanding fanbase expects immediate results from new signings. Additionally, adapting to Brazilian football, with its intense pace and tight schedule, will test the Swiss player, who has never played outside Europe.
Okafor will also need to overcome his recent injury history. In 2024, muscle issues sidelined him for several matches, impacting his consistency. Flamengo’s medical department, known for its efficiency, will play a crucial role in ensuring Okafor is in top physical condition.
Numbers and performance
The 2024/25 season was not kind to Okafor. With only 21 matches, one goal, and two assists, the striker struggled to establish himself. However, his career shows more impressive figures:
- Basel (2017-2020): 72 matches, 9 goals, 3 assists.
- Salzburg (2020-2023): 110 matches, 34 goals, 19 assists.
- Milan (2023-2025): 53 matches, 7 goals, 5 assists.
- Napoli (2025): 4 matches, 0 goals, 0 assists.
These stats suggest that, in a favorable environment, Okafor can be a productive player. His goal-scoring rate at Salzburg (one every 3.2 matches) indicates that, with confidence and playing time, he could be a significant asset.
Next steps in the negotiation
Talks between Flamengo and Milan are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with the European summer transfer window approaching. Flamengo plans to send representatives to Italy to discuss deal details, including the final fee and potential performance bonuses.
Napoli, the current loan holder, is unlikely to interfere, as the buy option will not be exercised. This clears the path for Flamengo to structure a competitive proposal, possibly including installment payments to facilitate the transaction.
Fan expectations
Okafor’s potential arrival is already stirring excitement on social media. Flamengo fans highlight the need for an attacker who brings speed and creativity to the team. The Swiss player’s experience in high-level competitions, like the Champions League, is seen as a boost for the Club World Cup, where the club will face giants like Chelsea.
However, some fans express caution, citing Okafor’s inconsistent season in Italy. The board, aware of expectations, is working to balance the squad with targeted signings without jeopard to Okafor. With only 21 matches, one goal, and two assists, the striker struggled to establish himself. However, his career shows more impressive figures:
- Basel (2017-2020): 72 matches, 9 goals, 3 assists.
- Salzburg (2020-2023): 110 matches, 34 goals, 19 assists.
- Milan (2023-2025): 53 matches, 7 goals, 5 assists.
- Napoli (2025): 4 matches, 0 goals, 0 assists.
These stats suggest that, in a favorable environment, Okafor can be a productive player. His goal-scoring rate at Salzburg (one every 3.2 matches) indicates that, with confidence and playing time, he could be a significant asset.
Next steps in the negotiation
Talks between Flamengo and Milan are expected to intensify in the coming weeks, with the European summer transfer window approaching. Flamengo plans to send representatives to Italy to discuss deal details, including the final fee and potential performance bonuses.
Napoli, the current loan holder, is unlikely to interfere, as the buy option will not be exercised. This clears the path for Flamengo to structure a competitive proposal, possibly including installment payments to facilitate the transaction.
Fan expectations
Okafor’s potential arrival is already stirring excitement on social media. Flamengo fans highlight the need for an attacker who brings speed and creativity to the team. The Swiss player’s experience in high-level competitions, like the Champions League, is seen as a boost for the Club World Cup, where the club will face giants like Chelsea.
However, some fans express caution, citing Okafor’s inconsistent season in Italy. The board, aware of expectations, is working to balance the squad with targeted signings without compromising the club’s financial health.
