Anthony Martial is still looking for a new club after his demands were reportedly too high for a potential suitor.
The former Manchester United star left Old Trafford in June when his contract expired, ending a nine-year stay in England, but is still a free agent three months later.
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Having not competed since December 2023, Martial seemed to be on the verge of returning to the pitch when rumors emerged last week that Flamengo were pursuing him.
However, due to the Frenchman’s demands, the Brazilian top clubs are said to have rejected a possible deal.
According to the news agency Meia Hora, Martial’s hopes of a contract were “unfeasible”.
The 28-year-old reportedly wanted a three-year contract with a salary that the team from Rio de Janeiro did not want to consider.
Flamengo have reportedly held talks with the striker after current striker Pedro tore his cruciate ligament while on international duty with Brazil earlier this month.
But with Martial’s demands exceeding anything the club was willing to offer, all hope of a move is now gone and there is no longer any possibility of negotiations progressing.
This is not the only interest in the former Red Devils player that has not resulted in a permanent deal.
Earlier this month, Greek Super League club AEK Athens reportedly made an offer to make Martial the highest-paid player in the club’s history.
Although no exact fee was given, it is believed that this would have seen him surpass former Tottenham midfielder Erik Lamela, who has a £2.1 million annual contract with the capital-based team.
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Over the summer, Martial was also linked with Serie A team Atalanta and a return to France to join OSC Lille.
Hardly anyone would have predicted such an uncertain future for the attacker in his early days at United, even though he made a name for himself as one of the most promising young players in world football.
Martial moved to Old Trafford from Monaco in 2015 for a transfer fee of £36 million, making him the most expensive teenager of all time at the time.
He made an immediate impact, scoring a beautiful solo goal on his debut against Liverpool just minutes after coming on as a substitute, and finished his first season as the club’s top scorer, with 17 goals in all competitions.
Although he helped his team win the FA Cup, EFL Cup and Europa League in his first two years, his impact later waned as he missed a total of 108 games due to injury.
He spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan at Spanish club Sevilla before his final season in England was ended prematurely due to fitness problems.
Martial’s last appearance for United was a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth late last year and in May he confirmed that he would leave the club at the end of his contract.
In an Instagram post, he penned an emotional farewell, writing: “Dear Manchester United fans. It is with great emotion that I write to you today to say goodbye.
“After nine incredible years at the club, the time has come for me to start a new chapter in my career.
“Since my arrival in 2015, I have had the great honour of wearing this jersey and playing in front of you, the best fans in the world! You have been an unwavering support to me in good times and bad. Your passion and loyalty have been a constant source of motivation for me.”
Finally, he reiterated his love for the club: “Manchester United will always be in my heart. This club has shaped my career and given me an incredible opportunity to play in front of you.”
“I am leaving the club to face new challenges. I will always remain a Red Devil and will continue to follow the club’s results with passion.”
“Thank you again for everything and see you soon.”