Flamengo Want It All: The Mengão Set Their Sights on Antoine Griezmann
Flamengo are living their most ambitious moment yet, and a blockbuster signing could be next on the club’s agenda.
Flamengo are riding a historic wave. Champions of everything in Brazil, winners of the Copa Libertadores against their São Paulo rivals, and now chasing a place in the Intercontinental Cup final—where a clash with Paris Saint-Germain could await—the Brazilian giants are not satisfied with past success. The next step is clear: sustain dominance with a world-class squad capable of competing on every front.
The Contract Renewal That Surprised Europe
Just months ago, Antoine Griezmann appeared to put any doubts about his future to rest by renewing his contract with Atlético Madrid until June 2027. Amid speculation linking him to MLS clubs and growing tension with sections of the fanbase, the French forward publicly expressed his happiness at extending his stay in Spain.
A Different Atlético and a Reduced Role
The sporting context has since shifted. Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid have evolved tactically, introducing new faces and a different rhythm to the team. Within that new structure, Griezmann’s role has gradually diminished, with fewer starts and less influence in decisive matches.
New Stars Fuel the Debate
The emergence of players such as Giuliano Simeone, Julián Álvarez, Álex Baena, and at times Nicolás González, has intensified questions about Griezmann’s place in the project. At 34 years old, the Frenchman is no longer untouchable, and discussions about his immediate future have resurfaced.
Flamengo Enter the Race With Full Ambition
That is where Flamengo come into the picture. According to multiple Brazilian outlets, the Mengão have identified Griezmann as a cornerstone of an ambitious 2026 plan. The club is reportedly preparing an investment of nearly $190 million in transfers, aiming to build a “galáctico” squad capable of handling seven official competitions.
Key Factors That Could Attract Griezmann
Flamengo hold several cards that could appeal to the World Cup winner. Current head coach Filipe Luís shared a memorable spell alongside Griezmann at Atlético Madrid, while the presence of players like Samuel Lino and Saúl Ñíguez could help ease the transition and create a familiar environment.
Early Talks and a Feasible Deal
At this stage, discussions are believed to be exploratory, focused on understanding Griezmann’s contractual situation and, above all, his willingness to take on a challenge outside Europe. With his market value lower than in previous years, Flamengo could attempt a deal in the region of €15 million, though wages would be the key factor in negotiations.
A Project Aimed at Making History
Beyond Griezmann, Flamengo are also monitoring high-profile names such as Lucas Beraldo and Valentín Castellanos, underlining the scale of their vision. The message is unmistakable: the Mengão want to dominate Brazil, conquer South America, and compete on the global stage. A signing like Antoine Griezmann would be the ultimate statement of that ambition.
