Flamengo make centre-forward search top priority as Plata and Cebolinha could depart | OneFootball

Flamengo will make signing a centre-forward the top priority in the next transfer window, and could seek extra attackers amid possible exits.

According to Globo.com, despite president Bap saying he does not intend to sell Plata, Flamengo are weighing a sale after the World Cup following concerns over his conduct in training and off the pitch.

Plata was unhappy with the reports. He deleted most photos of him playing for the club on social media, except the Libertadores title image, and unfollowed Flamengo on Instagram.

His market value is expected to rise with the World Cup. His standing with Ecuador remains intact, he has been called up this window and is seen as a near certainty for Sebastián Beccacece’s squad mid-year.

Everton Cebolinha could also depart. With no plan to renew his contract, which expires at year end, Flamengo are considering letting him go in the next window to protect their outlay. He cost €16 million, R$ 87 million at the time, in 2022.

Both potential exits depend on offers, but the club are unlikely to resist attractive bids in mid-year. With a free exit at the end of the season regarded as certain, Flamengo have started to scan the market for a replacement.

Luiz Henrique, formerly of Botafogo and now at Zenit, is on the shortlist, though the Russian club’s valuation is prohibitive. The board will prioritise spend on a centre-forward and may need to adjust the budget to target more affordable wingers.

Source: Globo.com