Peñarol ‘to pursue’ Flamengo’s De la Cruz on loan | OneFootball

Peñarol are exploring a move to take Flamengo midfielder De la Cruz on loan, having received encouragement from the player to open talks. He has also informed Flamengo of his interest.

Ovación reports that the initial wish is a cost-free one-year loan, while terms could shift depending on Flamengo’s stance. No formal bid has been lodged, though lines are open with Flamengo. De la Cruz is under contract until the end of 2028.

This season he has 19 appearances, one goal and one assist for Flamengo. He played in every Uruguay game at the World Cup, but recent physical issues have checked his momentum. Since returning he has not featured, after a training muscle problem, missing Chapecoense and São Paulo.

Leonardo Jardim said his previous comments had been misunderstood, explaining the player arrived from the national team, did strength work and developed a muscle issue that sidelined him for around a week. He added workloads are being managed and, with options such as Arrascaeta available, the midfielder must train to return.

Flamengo rebuffed enquiries earlier this year, telling his camp he was in their plans. Even so, his condition has raised concern after a R$ 102 million investment.

About a year ago, former medical chief José Luiz Runco criticised the transfer in a group message, alleging a chronic right-knee problem and another in the left, and saying a sale would be for non-competitive reasons.

Source: Globo.com