Flamengo chase Igor Jesus and Shakhtar prospect as 2027 strike options

Flamengo are eyeing a fresh striking duo for the 2027 campaign, with Igor Jesus of Nottingham Forest and Kauã Elias of Shakhtar Donetsk listed as primary targets. The board wants a mobile, physically strong centre‑forward but has not opened formal talks, and the high market values make negotiations difficult.

According to journalist Venê Casagrande, both forwards are being monitored by Flamengo’s scouting department but no offers have been made. The club has not opened any formal negotiations yet.

The search forms part of a broader plan to broaden the attacking options. Pedro remains a key reference, but Flamengo want players with different characteristics. The intention is to find a name capable of contesting Pedro’s spot and providing tactical flexibility, especially in matches that demand more movement up front.

Financial and contractual obstacles

Igor Jesus rose to prominence at Botafogo before moving to Nottingham. His style, marked by physical presence and the ability to join play outside the box, matches the profile Flamengo seek.

Nottingham have indicated they are not prepared to facilitate a January 2027 departure for the Brazilian. Igor’s market valuation is estimated at around 40 million euros, a sum seen as steep for Brazilian clubs.

Kauã Elias is a Fluminense academy product now at Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine. Shakhtar signed Elias in 2025 for a fixed fee of 17 million euros and his contract runs until the end of 2029.

Related transfer rumours and club context

Kaio Jorge of Cruzeiro has spoken openly about Flamengo’s recent transfer activity. Grêmio could block Flamengo from competing in the 2027 championship, according to reports. Gabigol has already contacted Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique to discuss a possible return to Flamengo.

Por: Marcos Eduardo published the story under the ávea News banner. It appeared in the Notícias section of the website.