Unusual reason halts Flamengo’s move for São Paulo’s Marcos Antônio | OneFootball

São Paulo needs to win a game in 2026 for Flamengo to attempt the signing of Marcos Antônio

The negotiation between Flamengo and São Paulo for Marcos Antônio is currently on hold. The reason: the São Paulo team has not yet won a game in 2026. According to the contract between the midfielder and Lazio (ITA), which owns the player's economic rights, the São Paulo club can only purchase the player after achieving a victory this year. Only after this result can Mengão pursue the signing.

The explanation: Marcos Antônio, who is on loan from the Italian club, has not yet met the contractual goals required for São Paulo to be obligated to buy him from Lazio. The final requirement for the definitive acquisition is just one thing: the first victory of the Morumbi team in the year.

Therefore, Flamengo is waiting for São Paulo to complete the purchase before making a ‘big’ investment in Marcos Antônio. According to journalist Venê Casagrande, São Paulo will pay 4.2 million euros (R$ 26 million) for 80% of the player’s rights, divided into four installments.

WHAT ELSE IS HOLDING UP THE DEAL?

In addition to not meeting the target, São Paulo has another issue to resolve. Next Friday (16th), the club president, Julio Casares, will face a vote by the club’s deliberative council for a possible impeachment.

WHY IS FLAMENGO LOOKING FOR A MIDFIELDER?

The midfield of Flamengo deserves special attention from the football department. That’s because Saúl underwent surgery and is only expected to play in March or April. In addition, De La Cruz requires special attention due to a chronic knee problem.

That’s why Marcos Antônio is a target in the market. In fact, Flamengo considered including Allan in the deal, but São Paulo wants the negotiations to remain unrelated. Therefore, Rubro-Negro is waiting to see how things unfold at the Morumbi club to know whether or not they can pursue the midfielder.

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