Flamengo pull the plug on surprise winger deal | OneFootball

Flamengo have chosen to walk away from a deal for Irish winger Mikey Johnston, reversing course just days before the forward was expected to arrive in Rio, according to UOL and Lance. The decision ends what had been a nearly completed transfer for the 26-year-old West Bromwich Albion attacker, who had been identified as a target to add depth and a different attacking profile to the squad.

The abrupt change in plans comes after Flamengo supporters voiced sharp criticism of the potential signing on social media. The backlash prompted high-level discussions within the club hierarchy, with influential members pushing back against finalizing the move. Internal concerns centered not only on the fans’ negative response, but also on Johnston’s suitability and recent injury record. Club directors ultimately cancelled his trip to Brazil, leaving the player in England and the signing off the table for now.

Johnston, who featured in 41 matches for West Bromwich this past season with three goals and five assists, also has experience at Celtic and with Vitória de Guimarães. Despite his technical skills and international exposure, the Flamengo board remained unconvinced that he would significantly strengthen the starting eleven, especially with the established presence of Michael, Everton Cebolinha, Luiz Araújo, and Gonzalo Plata already available on the wings.

Fan disquiet was compounded by recent underwhelming transfer gambits, with many supporters questioning the fee and whether Johnston’s profile met the club’s immediate needs. The club’s management—already under scrutiny in the wake of a public World Cup campaign and ongoing European interest in standout talents such as Wesley and Léo Ortiz—chose a conservative approach rather than risk further backlash or internal discord, according to Lance.

European observers reacted with a mix of surprise and disappointment to Flamengo’s decision, noting the level of scrutiny and expectations surrounding transfers to top Brazilian clubs. While some in Europe saw the saga as entertaining, others voiced sympathy for Johnston, who remains with West Bromwich awaiting his next step.

Flamengo’s transfer strategy now shifts towards finding alternatives to reinforce its attack while fending off persistent interest from abroad in several key players. Talks continue around possible sales and contract renewals, but club leadership has emphasized the need for more judicious recruitment—a message likely reinforced by the public reaction to the Johnston affair.

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