Corinthians Eyes Flamengo’s Everton Cebolinha as Transfer Target

Corinthians football executive Marcelo Paz has confirmed the club’s interest in Flamengo winger Everton Cebolinha, describing the Brazilian international as “interesting” and stating he would be “very welcome” at the São Paulo club. Speaking during an open training session at CT Joaquim Grava on Thursday, April 23, 2026, Paz emphasized that while Cebolinha is not a top priority, the club views him as a viable option for the upcoming transfer window.

The 30-year-old attacker, who has spent the past several seasons at Flamengo, is set to become a free agent in December 2026 when his current contract expires. Paz revealed that Cebolinha has not been approached by Flamengo regarding a contract renewal, increasing speculation about his potential departure from the Rio de Janeiro club.

“I like Cebolinha a lot, I’ve known him for a long time, he’s from Ceará, we’ve spent considerable time together, he used to attend Fortaleza games, he’s a fan. But that’s just a detail. The important thing is the player he is, the athlete he is, and we identify him interesting,” Paz stated, according to multiple Brazilian media outlets including Lance! and Metropoles.

Paz further clarified Corinthians’ position, noting that while they admire the player, he is not currently at the forefront of their transfer targets. “I won’t say he’s on the top of our list. He’s an interesting name, one that the market likes, with the possibility of a pre-contract. As far as I know, there is interest from the international market. But he’s a player who, if he came, would be very welcome,” the Corinthians executive added.

Contract Situation Fuels Transfer Speculation

Cebolinha’s current agreement with Flamengo runs until December 31, 2026, meaning he will be eligible to sign a pre-contract with another club starting in July 2026. This timing aligns with the typical mid-year window when players in the final six months of their contracts can negotiate future moves without a transfer fee.

The winger has publicly acknowledged that the 2026 season is likely his last with Flamengo, stating in February that he had not been contacted by the club’s management about renewing his deal. “There has been no conversation about renewal at this moment. I wasn’t approached. I believe I can say this will be my last season at Flamengo,” Cebolinha said, as reported by Brazilian media earlier this year.

Flamengo’s administration has indicated they would consider selling Cebolinha during the upcoming transfer window to recoup part of their investment, though the player himself appears to favor a move to international football. Paz acknowledged this preference, noting that Corinthians is aware of the player’s inclination toward overseas opportunities.

Corinthians’ Transfer Strategy and Squad Needs

Corinthians currently sits in 17th place in the 2026 Brasileirão Série A standings, having struggled with inconsistent performances throughout the season. The club’s football department has identified the attacking sector as an area requiring reinforcement, particularly seeking players with pace and goal-scoring ability.

Previous reports indicated that Corinthians’ former technical committee, led by head coach Dorival Júnior, had requested the signing of at least one speed-focused winger and a center-forward during the last transfer window. While Paz did not specify exact targets, his comments suggest Cebolinha fits the profile of a player the club is monitoring for potential acquisition.

The Corinthians executive also highlighted his personal history with the player, noting their shared regional background and past interactions when Cebolinha was emerging in Brazilian football. “We’ve known each other for a long time, we used to go to Fortaleza games together,” Paz revealed, adding that while this personal connection exists, the evaluation remains strictly professional.

Market Interest and Potential Challenges

Despite Corinthians’ interest, several factors could complicate a potential transfer. Cebolinha’s expressed desire to pursue opportunities in European or other international leagues presents a significant hurdle for the Brazilian club. The winger has attracted attention from multiple clubs, suggesting Corinthians would face competition for his signature.

Paz acknowledged the competitive landscape, stating that the player “is an interesting name that the market likes.” This recognition of broader interest underscores the challenge Corinthians would face in securing Cebolinha’s services, particularly if he opts for a move abroad as indicated by his preferences.

The Corinthians executive’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about the club’s transfer strategy for the remainder of the 2026 season. With the team battling to avoid relegation, any potential reinforcements would require to make an immediate impact to help improve their position in the league table.

Recent Performance and Role at Flamengo

During the 2026 season, Cebolinha has made limited appearances for Flamengo under head coach Leonardo Jardim. According to Lance!, the winger featured in 18 matches, scoring three goals and providing one assist. His reduced playing time has been cited as a factor contributing to his potential departure, with reports suggesting he has lost favor with the current coaching staff.

Cebolinha most recently played in Flamengo’s 2-1 victory over Vitória on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. However, since Jardim’s arrival, the Brazilian international has struggled to secure regular starting opportunities, leading to increased speculation about his future at the Maracanã-based club.

The winger’s contract situation, combined with his diminished role at Flamengo, has created an environment where a transfer appears increasingly plausible as the season progresses. His experience and pedigree as a former Brazil international make him an attractive option for clubs seeking experienced attacking options.

Next Steps in the Transfer Process

As the 2026 season continues, Corinthians will need to evaluate whether pursuing Cebolinha aligns with their immediate needs and financial capabilities. The club’s ability to compete with potential international suitors will depend on various factors, including the player’s personal preferences and the timing of any potential approach.

With the pre-contract window opening in July 2026, both Corinthians and interested parties will have a clearer picture of the landscape surrounding Cebolinha’s availability. The player’s final decision will likely hinge on his desire for international experience versus the opportunity to remain in Brazilian football with a club like Corinthians.

For now, Corinthians maintains a measured interest in the Flamengo winger, acknowledging his qualities while recognizing the realities of the current transfer market. As Paz succinctly put it, Cebolinha remains “an interesting name” that the club continues to monitor as part of their broader transfer evaluation process.

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