A deal once considered impossible

For years, a move of this magnitude felt out of reach for South American clubs. That perception has now been rewritten. Flamengo have pulled off one of the most remarkable operations in the region’s history, standing firm against a Premier League side like West Ham to secure the return of Lucas Paquetá.

The Brazilian midfielder never hid his desire to return to Rio de Janeiro, and after weeks of intense negotiations, Flamengo finally found common ground with the English club in a transfer that will be remembered across the continent.

Flamengo pushed to the limit

Initial talks suggested the deal could be closed for around €35 million, but West Ham adopted a hardline stance and forced Flamengo to stretch their offer. The Premier League side maximized its negotiating position, driving the price to historic levels.

According to ESPN Brasil, the final cost of the operation will be close to €50 million, a figure never before paid by a South American club for a player.

Breaking down the record fee

The structure of the deal reflects both ambition and complexity. Flamengo will pay €38 million net, plus €4 million in performance-based bonuses, while an additional €8 million corresponds to special taxes applied when negotiating with a Premier League club—an increase of nearly 18 percent over the original valuation.

Despite the financial weight, Flamengo remained committed, fully aware of the statement such a signing sends both domestically and internationally.

Paquetá’s motivation and long-term vision

For Paquetá, the move is about more than money. Returning to Flamengo places him closer to the Brazil national team, strengthening his case ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder is set to sign a contract running until 2031, becoming one of the highest-paid players in the squad.

His decision ultimately outweighed the security of a deal that still had two years remaining with West Ham, where his contract ran through June 2027.

A midfield built to dominate

This transfer further widens the gap between Flamengo and their regional rivals. The club can now boast a midfield with genuine European pedigree, featuring Lucas Paquetá, Jorginho, Saúl Ñíguez and Giorgian De Arrascaeta, among others.

The contrast is striking, especially considering West Ham paid €60 million to sign Paquetá from Lyon in 2022.

A landmark moment for South American football

Beyond Flamengo, the move marks a turning point for the entire continent. Never before had a South American club completed a €50 million transfer. The previous record stood at €30 million, when Gerson moved to Cruzeiro.

This deal doesn’t just bring Paquetá home—it redefines what South American football can now compete for on the global stage.

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