Flamengo has identified a major market opportunity that could redefine its offensive power for 2026. Marcos Leonardo, the 22-year-old Al-Hilal striker, has become a top priority after his move to Atletico Madrid collapsed in the final hours of the European window. Following the February 2nd deadline, the Brazilian forward remains in limbo in Saudi Arabia, where Al-Hilal needs to free up foreign player slots for the current season.
The Madrid Factor and the Opening for Flamengo
Marcos Leonardo’s move to the Spanish capital was nearly finalized until Al-Hilal backtracked on the terms of a loan deal with a €40 million purchase option. The failed transfer left the player frustrated and available. Flamengo, which has monitored the former Santos star since his time at Benfica, sees this as the perfect moment to bring the goalscorer back to Brazil, using the prospect of the 2026 World Cup as a primary incentive for his return.
Perspectivas Editoriais
Competition and Financial Engineering
While the interest is strong, the operation is complex. Marcos Leonardo earns a significant salary in Saudi Arabia, which would require a robust financial plan from Flamengo’s board. In addition to Flamengo, clubs like Palmeiras and São Paulo remain watchful. However, Flamengo’s economic strength in 2026, boosted by new commercial revenues and the success of the 2025 Club World Cup, gives the Rio de Janeiro giants a significant advantage in negotiating a shared-salary loan deal.
Impressive Numbers: The Club World Cup Hero
Marcos Leonardo arrives on Flamengo’s radar with serious momentum. In 2025, he was Al-Hilal’s hero at the Club World Cup, scoring the historic 4-3 winner against Manchester City in extra time. Overall, the striker has netted 43 goals in 67 matches for the Saudi club. At Flamengo, he is viewed as the ideal successor to Gabigol and a high-level competitor for Pedro, ensuring the squad maintains its firepower during the 2026 World Cup call-ups.
Takeaways:
- Flamengo is negotiating to sign Marcos Leonardo (Al-Hilal) for the 2026 season.
- The player’s transfer to Atletico Madrid collapsed at the end of the European window.
- Al-Hilal needs to vacate foreign player slots, facilitating a loan back to Brazil.
- The striker was a standout in the 2025 Club World Cup, eliminating Manchester City.
Key Facts:
- Player: Marcos Leonardo (22 years old).
- Current Club: Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia).
- Status: Open negotiations for a loan with an option to buy.
- Market Value: Estimated at €20 million – €40 million range.
- Motivation: Secure a spot in the Brazil National Team for the 2026 World Cup.
- Competition: Previous interest from Palmeiras and Premier League sides.
FAQs (Schema-ready):
- Has Marcos Leonardo signed with Flamengo yet? Not yet. Advanced talks are underway, but Al-Hilal has not yet officially approved a formal proposal.
- Why didn’t his move to Atletico Madrid happen? The Saudi club withdrew from the agreed loan terms during the final hours of the transfer deadline.
- What is his primary position? He is a traditional center-forward (number 9) known for his mobility and high-intensity pressing.
