Rodrigo De Paul to Flamengo: R$96 million negotiations progress with Atlético Madrid
Flamengo is advancing negotiations to sign Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Atlético Madrid for 15 million euros (approximately R$96 million), in a move set to shake up Brazilian football. The interest was confirmed on Sunday, July 6, 2025, by sources close to the club’s board, which aims to strengthen the squad following Gerson’s transfer to Zenit and Erick Pulgar’s injury. The talks, which include the possibility of installment payments, reflect Flamengo’s strategy to enhance its midfield for the remainder of the season. The 2022 World Cup champion is reportedly open to returning to South America, facilitating the discussions. The deal, handled cautiously, hinges on financial adjustments and approval from the Spanish club.
The pursuit of De Paul comes at a critical time for Flamengo, which faced tactical challenges in the Club World Cup. Signing a player with international experience is seen as vital to address squad gaps. Fans, excited about the prospect, are already debating the Argentine’s potential impact on social media.
- Flamengo’s key motivations: Reinforce the midfield after roster losses.
- De Paul’s profile: Versatility, leadership, and technical quality.
- Negotiation status: Initial 15 million euro offer, with potential for installments.
Expectations are high for updates in the coming weeks as the club gears up for the Brazilian Championship challenges.
FLAMENGO QUER DE PAUL! 💰
— Planeta do Flamengo 🌎 (@fla_infos) July 7, 2025
O Flamengo iniciou conversas para tentar a contratação do volante De Paul, campeão mundial com a seleção argentina em 2022.
Aos 30 anos, o jogador defende o Atlético de Madrid, da Espanha, e enxerga com bons olhos a possibilidade de atuar no futebol… pic.twitter.com/GsObD4BoTd
Talks with Atlético Madrid
Negotiations between Flamengo and Atlético Madrid have gained momentum recently, with the Spanish club open to discussing De Paul’s transfer. The initial 15 million euro price tag (R$96 million) is a significant investment, but Flamengo is exploring ways to make it feasible. Sources suggest the board is considering spreading the payment, a common approach for high-value transfers.
Atlético, however, is in no rush to release the player, whose contract runs until 2026. While coach Diego Simeone prefers to keep De Paul, he is not opposed to a deal if the financial terms are met. Flamengo, aware of competition from clubs like Inter Miami, is pushing to expedite talks to secure the signing.
The deal requires balancing the ambition to strengthen the team with financial responsibility. Flamengo’s football department, led by seasoned professionals, is assessing the investment’s impact on the budget, factoring in recent revenues, such as Gerson’s 25 million euro transfer.
Rodrigo De Paul’s technical profile
Rodrigo De Paul, 30, is one of Argentina’s most well-rounded midfielders. Born in Sarandí, he rose through Racing Club, showcasing intensity and game vision. His European career, first at Udinese and later at Atlético Madrid, cemented his status as a versatile player, capable of playing as a defensive or attacking midfielder.
In the 2024/25 season, De Paul featured in 32 matches for Atlético, scoring three goals and providing five assists. His ability to link play and lead in critical moments made him a key figure in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup and 2021 Copa América triumphs.
- On-field skills:
- Accurate long and short passes.
- Ball recovery and play initiation.
- Leadership and experience in high-stakes competitions.
- Tactical versatility across formations.
De Paul’s potential arrival would be a major coup for Flamengo, particularly to fill the void left by Gerson, who played a similar role in midfield.
Flamengo’s market moves
Flamengo is undergoing a squad overhaul, driven by key departures and injuries. Gerson’s 25 million euro move to Zenit left a creative gap, while Pulgar’s injury, sidelining him for weeks, heightened the need for reinforcements. The club also faces pressure to maintain its lead in the Brazilian Championship.
Beyond De Paul, Flamengo is eyeing other targets. Esequiel Barco of Spartak Moscow and Jorge Carrascal of Dynamo Moscow are under consideration, though financial and logistical hurdles persist. The failed signing of Mikey Johnston from West Bromwich, due to medical issues, underscores the club’s cautious approach to new investments.
Flamengo’s strategy is clear: target versatile, experienced players suited to coach Filipe Luís’s playing style. De Paul’s potential signing aligns with this vision, offering technical quality and leadership.
Flamengo fans’ reactions
News of De Paul’s possible transfer has sparked excitement among Flamengo supporters. On social media, fans praise the Argentine’s quality and potential to elevate the squad. Many see the move as a bold statement of the club’s ambitions in domestic and international competitions.
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However, some fans question the transfer’s cost. The R$96 million price tag, even if paid in installments, is viewed by some as risky given recent expenditures. Analysts, though, support the investment, arguing De Paul would bring technical and marketing value to Flamengo.
Fans are already envisioning De Paul partnering with Arrascaeta, potentially forming one of South America’s strongest midfields.
Filipe Luís’s tactical approach
Under Filipe Luís, Flamengo employs a possession-based, creative midfield-focused style. The coach, who took over in 2024, faced scrutiny after the Club World Cup but retains the board’s backing. De Paul’s potential signing supports his tactical vision, as the Argentine can control the game’s tempo and link play across the pitch.
De Paul could serve as a stand-in for Arrascaeta during rotations while adding defensive solidity in tight matches. His experience in elite competitions would also be a valuable asset in high-pressure games.
Financial hurdles in the deal
The primary challenge in signing De Paul is the 15 million euro fee demanded by Atlético Madrid. This sum tests Flamengo’s financial planning, especially after recent investments. Installments are a feasible option but require careful budgeting.
Competition from clubs like Inter Miami adds complexity. The MLS side, with Lionel Messi and other Argentines, offers an attractive project with high salaries. Flamengo is banking on De Paul’s emotional connection to South America and the chance to play for one of the continent’s biggest clubs.
Integration into Flamengo’s squad
If the transfer materializes, De Paul would be one of Brazilian football’s most high-profile signings in 2025. His elite experience and technical ability could reshape Flamengo’s midfield. The anticipated partnership with Arrascaeta has fans buzzing, expecting a dynamic and creative duo.
Moreover, De Paul’s signing would boost Flamengo’s competitiveness in the Brazilian Championship and Copa Libertadores. His leadership could also mentor younger players like Lorran and Matheus Gonçalves.
Transfer market activity
The transfer market is buzzing, with Flamengo not alone in seeking reinforcements. The transfer window, opening July 10, will be pivotal for finalizing De Paul’s deal. Flamengo plans to submit a formal offer soon, while the player’s representatives review the proposed terms.
Other Brazilian clubs, like Palmeiras and Corinthians, are also active, but Flamengo’s financial muscle and ambition set it apart. De Paul’s signing would be a landmark for Brazilian football, reinforcing Flamengo’s status as a South American powerhouse.
Next steps in the negotiation
The coming weeks will be decisive for De Paul’s future. Flamengo aims to intensify talks with Atlético Madrid, seeking a mutually agreeable deal. The short transfer window demands swift action from the club’s board.
Meanwhile, Flamengo is preparing for upcoming Brazilian Championship matches, aiming to hold its lead. De Paul’s potential arrival is seen as a strategic move to boost the squad’s title chances this season.
