Ex-Flamengo star reveals dream of returning to Brazil in 2026 | OneFootball

Flamengo understands it needs to strengthen the team's defense after Cleiton's departure

After playing in Italy and Turkey, defender Léo Duarte states that he has a strong desire to return to Brazil in 2026. The youth product of Flamengo, however, still needs to fulfill his contract with Basaksehir (TUR) until June.

— With six months left on my contract, I still want to return to Brazil, to be able to perform, to play well. I think I can. I'm torn, but of course, if a good project from Brazil comes up, I will consider it carefully and keep the doors open. There is a possibility of returning, yes -, highlighted Léo Duarte to GE.

Who from Brazil has already tried to sign the former Flamengo player?

Grêmio and Vasco have already competed for Duarte, who recalls having been very close to an agreement to return to the country. However, the termination fee with the Turks scared off the Brazilian clubs.

Before Basaksehir, however, the defender played two and a half seasons for Milan (ITA). The athlete even shared the locker room with Lucas Paquetá at the Italian club. Neither of the two young players, however, stayed there for long.

Has Flamengo already tried to bring him back?

In the interview, Duarte does not mention being approached by Rubro-Negro. However, the professional fondly remembers the youth categories and also when he made his professional debut.

— It's been almost seven years since I left Brazil, left Flamengo, I played that entire first phase of the Libertadores (2019), we were there with Abel Braga, but we knew that the team would eventually take off (…) It was very good -, highlighted Léo Duarte.

Does Flamengo need defenders?

Whether or not Duarte is approached, defense is one of the sectors that the Most Beloved intends to strengthen for 2026. This is because the young Cleiton is sold, which opens up a spot among the starters Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira and Danilo, in addition to the youth players Iago and João Victor.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.