Flamengo chief executive Bruno Spindel has revealed just how much work went into signing Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa from Inter in the January transfer window.

After a highly successful loan spell with the Rubronegro club during 2019, Gabigol was purchased on a permanent basis for a reported sum of €18 million and signed a four year contract with them.

“When did we start negotiations with Inter? [We negotiated] from July/August,” Spindel began an interview with FCInterNews.it.

“The player wanted to stay at Flamengo but obviously he received other offers and we could have lost it but because of his relationship with the club and with our fans we always believed that he would stay.”

He then went on to discuss how Inter acted during the whole negotiation process.

“It was very tough but everything is always fair and transparent. Flamengo has the highest esteem for the two of them [Inter chief executive Giuseppe ‘Beppe’ Marotta and sporting director Piero Ausilio] and for Inter.” 

Next he was asked if during negotiations the name of teen sensation Lincoln was brought up: “No we never discussed him.”

He was then asked about whether or not Flamengo would consider doing further business with Inter in the future off the back of the deal they agreed for Gabigol.

“Of course. Inter were totally transparent and treated us in the correct manner.”

In conclusion Spindel went on to discuss Gabigol’s chances of earning himself a recall to the Brazilian national team, who he has already represented on five occasions.

“Gabriel is improving day after day and we hope that he will help Flamengo to reach our goals in this and the next seasons so let’s hope he can keep on improving.”