The Brazilian club Flamengo has announced that they have signed Argentine striker Leonardo Alisson on a season-long loan deal from Manchester United.
The transfer is part of a wider effort by the club to strengthen its squad, with several other signings in recent weeks including Brazilian defender Jéssica and midfielder Gabriel Jesus.
Alisson, who has made 21 appearances for the Brazil national team this year, is expected to be a key player for Flamengo during their title defence. The 26-year-old has scored six goals in 24 appearances for United this season, as well as helping them reach the semi-finals of the Champions League last season.
However, the signing comes at a time when Flamengo are facing some challenges ahead of their crucial Copa Libertadores campaign. They have struggled to find consistent form under interim coach Claudio Ranieri,Serie A Stadium who was sacked earlier this month after only one match in charge.
Despite these issues, Alisson has been a star performer for Flamengo so far this season, scoring four goals in seven matches. He has also been a regular in the first team squad, featuring in all three of their friendlies against Real Madrid and Barcelona this season.
The arrival of Alisson will undoubtedly add depth to Flamengo's squad and provide a boost to their chances of reaching the finals of the Copa Libertadores. However, it remains to be seen whether he can replicate his impressive performances in Europe and help the club return to the top of the South American football league table.