Flamengo rejects R$100 million offer from RB Leipzig for defender Léo Ortiz
Flamengo has declined a transfer offer of €15 million (approximately R$100 million) from German club RB Leipzig for standout centre-back Léo Ortiz, according to reports from Globo Esporte.
Leipzig’s Attempt to Sign Léo Ortiz Falls Short
RB Leipzig submitted a proposal worth €12 million upfront and €3 million in performance-based bonuses, hoping to secure the services of the 29-year-old Brazilian defender during the ongoing European summer transfer window. Despite the attractive offer, Flamengo rejected the deal, opting to retain one of their defensive pillars.
The negotiation was reportedly led by Mario Gómez, former German international and current technical director at Red Bull Global. Gómez has followed Ortiz’s career closely since his days at Red Bull Bragantino, another club within the Red Bull football network.
Flamengo Flexes Financial Strength
Flamengo’s refusal highlights the club’s financial stability and competitive ambitions. Despite receiving a lucrative offer from a top Bundesliga side, the Rio de Janeiro outfit demonstrated its ability to hold onto key players amid ongoing reinforcements.
During the current transfer window, Flamengo has already signed high-profile players such as Saúl Ñíguez, Emerson Royal, and Samuel Lino, further reinforcing their status as one of South America’s most ambitious clubs.
Ortiz’s Career and Contract Situation
Léo Ortiz is in his second season with Flamengo after joining from Red Bull Bragantino. Since arriving, he has made 74 appearances, scored six goals, and contributed two assists. The centre-back has a contract with Flamengo that runs until 2028, and he remains a consistent name in discussions around the Brazilian national team.
His strong performances have not gone unnoticed in Europe. Juventus previously expressed interest in the defender, but no formal negotiations materialized. Now, RB Leipzig has become the latest club to fail in securing the player’s signature.
De La Cruz Could Still Depart
While Flamengo has successfully fended off interest in Léo Ortiz, the same may not apply to other squad members. Uruguayan midfielder Nicolás De La Cruz has reportedly re-entered the sights of River Plate, his former club. Argentine manager Marcelo Gallardo, now coaching River again, is said to be eager to bring the playmaker back to Buenos Aires.
