Flamengo has solidified its strategy for the upcoming transfer window: the club will not pursue Memphis Depay, instead maintaining Al-Hilal’s Marcos Leonardo as its primary target to bolster the attack.
Although Depay’s contract with Corinthians is approaching its end (mid-2026), Flamengo’s board has dismissed the move for strategic reasons. The football department’s focus remains on center-forward Marcos Leonardo, who is currently in stellar form in Saudi Arabia with 15 goals in 29 matches. Flamengo’s analysis suggests that while Depay would require a massive wage investment with little margin for future profit, the young former Santos striker offers physical vigor, a sharp scoring instinct, and high resale potential for the European market, better aligning with the club’s financial and sporting roadmap.
Depay: Protagonist at Timão, but Out of Gávea’s Plans
Since landing in São Paulo, Memphis Depay has taken on the role of technical leader at Corinthians. However, this season, the forward’s numbers have been modest: just one goal in 11 official matches. Despite his prestige within the Parque Jorge district, Flamengo believes Depay’s tactical fit would create unnecessary competition in an already robust squad, representing a risky “cost-benefit” for a player over 30.
Corinthians, meanwhile, is adopting a cautious stance. Without confirming a renewal or departure, the São Paulo club is watching interest from other markets and the possibility of the player returning to Europe, while trying to extract the most out of the number 10’s football in the final stretch of his contract.
The Marcos Leonardo Factor
The preference for Marcos Leonardo is not just technical but strategic. At 22, the Al-Hilal striker ticks every box for Flamengo’s board:
- Goal-Scoring Form: An average of over 0.5 goals per game in the Saudi Pro League.
- Tactical Profile: A mobile center-forward who fits the Rubro-Negro’s current playing style.
- Value Appreciation: At the ideal age for a future high-impact sale, ensuring a return on investment.
Financial Equilibrium
Flamengo’s strategy seeks to avoid long-term contracts with astronomical salaries for players in the twilight of their careers. The decision not to open talks with Depay reinforces a policy of technical austerity—prioritizing athletes who can offer both immediate performance and mid-term financial sustainability. Meanwhile, the club continues to monitor Marcos Leonardo’s situation in Saudi Arabia, waiting for the right moment for an official bid.
