Brazilian club Flamengo has made its final decision regarding entering negotiations to sign young striker Marcos Leonardo from Saudi club Al-Hilal during the current winter transfer window. According to sources close to Al-Midan Al-Riyadi, the Brazilian giants have decided against pursuing the deal, putting an end to speculation linking the player with a swift return to his homeland.
Background of the transfer and challenges at Al-Hilal
Marcos Leonardo, considered one of Brazil's most promising young talents, joined Al-Hilal in the 2024 winter transfer window from Brazilian club Santos, in a deal that generated considerable interest. His transfer came at a time when the Saudi Professional League was experiencing a surge in international star signings, as Al-Hilal, under the guidance of Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, looked to strengthen its squad to compete strongly on all domestic and continental fronts. Despite his considerable talent, Leonardo found himself in the midst of fierce competition for a starting position in the "Leaders'" attack, which boasts prominent names such as Serbian striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Financial obstacles thwart Flamingo's dream
Sources confirmed that the main reason Flamengo backed out of the deal was purely financial. Marcos Leonardo's salary at Al-Hilal is considered very high and exceeds the salary cap that Flamengo, despite its financial strength in Brazil, can afford. The sources added, "Marcos Leonardo will not join Flamengo during the current winter transfer window because the player's financial demands are too high, and Flamengo's management cannot afford such a salary." This is not the first time salary has been an obstacle; the player previously rejected an offer from the Brazilian club last year for the same reason, confirming that the idea of him joining now is "not on the table.".
An uncertain future and Al-Hilal's desire for change
Al-Hilal officials are seeking a solution for the Brazilian striker's future, with the intention of terminating his contract to free up a spot for new foreign players. This move aligns with the club's strategy to manage the foreign player quota set by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, especially since Leonardo is registered as an over-age player on the domestic roster. Releasing the player would provide the club with greater flexibility in the transfer market to strengthen other positions deemed more urgent by the coaching staff. This leaves the young striker's future at a crossroads: either he will look for a club outside Brazil capable of meeting his financial demands, or he will reassess his current situation with the Saudi league champions.
