Flamengo Denounce Supposed Transfer Target List as Fabricated

Rio de Janeiro—Flamengo have moved swiftly to dismiss a document circulating online that purported to reveal the club’s internal scouting targets and squad assessments, branding the material an outright fake.

The controversy erupted on Wednesday after the popular outlet Coluna do Fla published a story built around what it described as a leaked list from the Mengão scouting department. The article featured a raft of names reportedly under consideration, including Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson, Wolverhampton midfielder João Gomes, and forwards Jhon Arias of Fluminense, Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus, Real Betis winger Luiz Henrique, and New York City FC’s Taty Castellanos. Domestic players such as Plata, Evertton Araújo, and Wallace Yan were also listed as potentially available for sale, while every member of the current squad was allegedly graded on a zero-to-five-star scale.

Within hours, Flamengo issued an unequivocal rebuttal. “The material presented does not correspond to any official or internal document from the Football Department and is a forgery created by third parties,” the club stated, adding that a routine check with the Communications Department would have prevented the dissemination of misinformation. The Rio giants underlined their “commitment to transparency and responsible communication” and warned they will “take appropriate measures whenever necessary” to protect the club’s reputation.

The episode underscores the challenges Brazilian clubs face in controlling narratives during transfer season, when even unverified leaks can shift market dynamics and fan expectations. Flamengo’s forceful response aims to close the matter before speculation gains further traction, ensuring the focus returns to on-pitch preparations rather than phantom paperwork.