Brighton
Brighton and Hove Albion have added Flamengo youngster Ryan Roberto to their growing South American shortlist, with fresh reports from Brazil detailing early scouting interest.
The Seagulls have built a clear strategy in the region. Recent moves for players like Julio Enciso and Facundo Buonanotte underline that approach. Now, attention has turned to another teenage attacker developing at Flamengo.
According to RTI Esporte, Brighton scouts are currently in Ecuador. They are closely following Ryan Roberto during the Copa Libertadores U20. There has been no formal approach yet. However, the presence of club observers suggests serious tracking rather than casual interest.
Player profile and early development
Ryan Roberto is only 18 but already showing signs of high-level potential. The forward joined Flamengo in 2023 from Athletico Paranaense. The two clubs still share his economic rights, each holding 50%.
Since stepping into Flamengo’s U20 setup in 2025, he has made 19 appearances. During that time, he scored seven goals and added one assist. Those numbers are solid for a player still adapting to a higher level.
In addition, he was part of the squad that won the U20 Intercontinental Cup in 2025. That exposure has helped increase his visibility internationally.
He has also had a brief taste of senior football. Earlier this year, he featured twice in the Rio de Janeiro state championship.
Contract situation and valuation
Flamengo
Flamengo are well protected in this situation. Ryan Roberto is under contract until December 2027. That gives the Brazilian club strong leverage in any future negotiations.
His release clause is set at €50m (£43m). That figure is considered high, especially for a player yet to establish himself in senior football. Still, it reflects Flamengo’s wider policy of protecting their top prospects.
Internally, Flamengo are not rushing into any valuation discussions. Even so, there is growing expectation that offers could arrive in the summer window.
Why Brighton are watching closely
Brighton’s recruitment model favours players exactly like Ryan Roberto. Young, technically sharp, and still undervalued before a major breakout.
However, there are still clear development areas. His output at youth level is promising, but not yet dominant. One assist in 19 matches suggests his creative end product can improve.
That said, his current run in the Libertadores U20 could be decisive. Strong performances in this tournament often accelerate transfers to Europe.
Brighton, therefore, appear to be positioning themselves early. They are gathering information and assessing whether to move before his price rises further.
Next steps for Brighton
For now, there is no official bid on the table. Flamengo insist there has been no formal contact.
Even so, Brighton’s presence on the ground changes the picture. It signals intent and keeps them ahead of potential competition.
The likely next step is continued monitoring through the tournament. If Ryan Roberto maintains his level, interest could quickly become concrete.
A summer move is not guaranteed. But the groundwork is clearly being laid.
🇧🇷 EXCLUSIVE: Álvaro Montoro ‼️
➡️ Brighton interest meets Textor financial trouble
➡️ #BHAFC official watched him against Grêmio
➡️ Travelled to Porto Alegre specifically for Montoro
➡️ Pedro Reinert explains situation from Brazil…https://t.co/jLvcE1ZoHR
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 19, 2026