Flamengo and Botafogo Battle for Reinier as Real Madrid Greenlights Permanent Exit
Flamengo and Botafogo are locked in a race to sign Reinier Jesus, with Real Madrid signaling openness to a permanent sale of the Brazilian midfielder during the current transfer window.
Sources close to the player indicate that Reinier is enjoying his vacation in Brazil and does not plan to return to Madrid, where he is no longer part of Xabi Alonso’s plans. The 22-year-old was notably left out of Real Madrid’s squad for the Club World Cup, underscoring his uncertain future with the Spanish giants.
Flamengo Interested in Homecoming
Flamengo, who sold Reinier to Real Madrid in 2020 for approximately €30 million, is eager to bring the academy graduate back to the Maracanã. The Rio-based club is preparing a proposal for a permanent transfer, hoping to re-integrate the playmaker into their squad.
However, Flamengo faces direct competition from Botafogo, another major Rio de Janeiro club with serious ambitions in the 2025 campaign.
Botafogo’s European Leverage
According to journalist Ben Fernandes Santos, Botafogo are also negotiating with Madrid for Reinier’s rights. Club owner John Textor is reportedly leveraging his multi-club ownership model which includes stakes in European teams to tempt Reinier with the prospect of a future return to Europe, should his performances in Brazil warrant it.
This strategy proved successful previously, when Botafogo beat Flamengo to the signing of Luiz Henrique in 2024.
Madrid Committed to Sale, Not Another Loan
As reported by Football Transfers, Real Madrid have decided to part ways with Reinier permanently, ending a string of loan spells that failed to yield the expected development. Club president Florentino Pérez no longer sees Reinier as part of the club’s long-term plans.
Over the past four seasons, Reinier has played on loan at Borussia Dortmund, Girona, Frosinone, and Granada, registering 105 appearances, 7 goals, and 8 assists.
Madrid’s clear stance is that they will no longer sanction another loan. Interested clubs must either negotiate a transfer fee or make a compelling case to revisit loan terms an unlikely outcome.
