Flamengo target says move to Russia is career’s “best path” | OneFootball

Flamengo monitors the situation of Luiz Henrique, former Botafogo player, in 2026

Flamengo is monitoring the situation of Luiz Henrique, a forward for Zenit (RUS), with the next transfer window in mind. The player even surprised Brazilian football in 2025 by leaving Botafogo for Russia. Despite criticism from the black-and-white club’s supporters, the player believes he made the best possible decision.

— For me, Zenit was the best path I could have taken. I had no doubt that if I kept doing the work I did at Botafogo in 2024, I could make it to the national team, I could be called up again. I said to myself: I can’t stop working, I have to work every day — he said, before concluding:

— Maintain my high level physically and tactically so that when I get the opportunity, if Ancelotti or his staff watch a game, I’m doing well. That’s what happened: I’m here at Zenit and they’re always watching me, no matter if I’m a little far away, it’s important to keep working, to keep maintaining a high level — Luiz Henrique concluded, speaking to ‘GE’.

How much does Zenit want to sell Luiz Henrique?

Zenit is demanding 50 million euros (R$ 300.5 million at the current exchange rate) to sell Luiz Henrique. The former Botafogo player has drawn the attention of clubs in European football, and interest could increase after the World Cup.

Has Flamengo already tried to sign Luiz Henrique?

The forward came close to joining Flamengo at the end of 2023. At the time, the Rubro-Negro had all but finalized an agreement with Real Betis (ESP), where Luiz Henrique was playing. However, John Textor swooped in on the deal and managed to take the player to Botafogo.

After a magical year at Botafogo, Luiz Henrique signed with Zenit. In two seasons in Russia, Flamengo’s target has 48 appearances, seven goals, and five assists. In addition, the forward’s contract runs until December 2029, meaning the Rubro-Negro will have a lot of work to do to try to sign the Brazil national team player.

When does the next transfer window open?

It is worth noting that the second transfer window of 2026 will take place between July 20 and September 11. In this way, Flamengo will have around two months to strengthen the squad for the final stretch of the season.

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