Flamengo have broken their duck for the transfer window, officially announcing the signings of Elias and Gabriel on Thursday.
The club recently changed president and, with a new board in place, had taken time to examine the club’s finances before spending.
They have now, though, set to work with the announcement of Brazil international Elias on a year’s loan from Sporting Lisbon, followed by the signing of Bahia playmaker Gabriel.
While Gabriel was an important player for the Baiano club last season, it is the arrival of former Corinthians star that offers a statement of intent from the Rubro-Negro.
Elias became the biggest signing in Sporting Lisbon history at €9 million just 18-months ago, but has dropped out of the first-team reckoning at the Estadio da Luz.
As part of the loan-deal agreed, Flamengo will now have the option to purchase the player at the end of the year.
The club are not finished yet, either, with Mogi Mirim-owned left-back João Paulo is also expected to join the club on a one-year loan in the coming days.
João Paulo impressed for Ponte Preta in 2012 and his ownership will transfer to Traffic agency-owned side Desportivo Brasil, with Flamengo being used to advertise his services to a wider audience.
Source: Lancenet
