Real Madrid have long been synonymous with success both on and off the pitch, consistently setting revenue records and securing some of the most high-profile transfers in world soccer. However, even the most successful clubs aren’t immune to missteps. A $30 million Brazilian signing is now set to leave for Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer without ever making an official appearance for Los Blancos.
After successfully signing Vinicius Junior in 2018 and Rodrygo in 2019, Real Madrid took another big swing on Brazilian talent, bringing in Reinier Jesus from Flamengo in January 2020. The Spanish giants paid €30 million for the then-teenager, who had impressed with six goals and two assists in just 15 senior appearances.
Reinier was part of the Flamengo squad that won the 2019 Copa Libertadores and stood out in Brazil’s youth national teams. He also earned an Olympic gold medal with Brazil at the Tokyo 2020 Games, playing alongside stars including Neymar.
However, opportunities at the senior level in Madrid were scarce. Reinier spent most of his early days with Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s B team, before being sent on a string of loans. His first stop came in August 2020 with a two-year stint at Borussia Dortmund, where he made 39 appearances but recorded just one goal and one assist in a disappointing spell.
Subsequent loans to Girona (18 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist), Frosinone (23-3-2), and Granada CF (25-1-4) followed, but Reinier failed to leave a lasting impression at any of those clubs. With no clear path to the Real Madrid first team and without logging a single official minute for the senior side, the club has now made a definitive decision on his future.
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Reinier departs Real Madrid on a free transfer
Despite being under contract until June 2026, Real Madrid have decided to allow Reinier Jesus to leave on a free transfer to Atletico Mineiro. According to Globo Esporte, Los Blancos will retain 50% of the player’s economic rights as part of the deal.
Now 23, Reinier is hoping to reignite his career back in Brazil, where he first made his mark. Only his medical exam remains before the move is made official. While Real Madrid continue to invest heavily in young talent, most recently with Arda Guler and Franco Mastantuono, Reinier stands as a rare €30 million flop in the club’s otherwise savvy recruitment strategy.
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