Flamengo pull off shock move for Atlético legend | OneFootball

Flamengo is set to make a significant addition to their midfield after reaching an agreement with Saúl Ñíguez, the long-serving Atlético de Madrid midfielder. The news, first reported by Fabrizio Romano and confirmed by Lance, signals a major transfer coup for the Brazilian side after weeks of speculation over Saúl’s next move.

Saúl, 30, is expected to arrive in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday (23rd) for medical tests and to complete a contract reportedly lasting three and a half years, according to Lance. The deal marks the likely end of Saúl’s two-decade spell at Atlético, where he made his mark under Diego Simeone, amassing over 400 appearances and winning two La Liga titles alongside a Europa League crown.

The midfielder spent last season on loan at Sevilla and previously had a stint with Chelsea. His departure from Atlético comes after he cancelled a transfer to Trabzonspor at the last minute, citing “personal reasons” in a statement on social media. That decision surprised both Spanish and Turkish supporters; Trabzonspor fans were particularly shocked that Saúl turned down European football in favour of Flamengo, with some online reactions expressing disbelief and questioning his motives.

For Flamengo, Saúl’s signing comes at a critical time. The club is still adapting to the departure of captain Gerson, Pulgar’s ongoing injury, and uncertainty in the midfield ranks. As Rodrigo Mattos analyzed for UOL, filling the gap left by Gerson has been a challenge, with De La Cruz sidelined and substitutes like Allan and Jorginho stepping in. Saúl, who has often played both as a deep-lying midfielder and in more advanced roles at Atlético, offers versatility and brings familiarity with head coach Filipe Luís—his former teammate during the most successful era in Madrid.

Mattos pointed out, “He’s a midfielder who gets forward, doesn’t stay back. He played with Filipe Luís at the start of his career, so the coach knows him well and he fits the model.” The move is also expected to reunite Saúl with Jorginho, another teammate from his Chelsea days.

Saúl’s contract with Atlético was set to run until mid-2026, but indications are that he will leave on a free, closing a chapter as one of the club’s icons. He joins Flamengo looking for a fresh start in South America, and his arrival has already generated buzz among fans and observers across Europe and Brazil.

Whether Saúl can immediately fill Gerson’s shoes remains to be seen, but the Spanish international’s experience, capacity to contribute in multiple midfield roles, and previous success alongside Filipe Luís provide reasons for optimism within Flamengo’s ranks.

(Sources: Lance, UOL)