Fluminense Football Club has officially announced its intention to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season by signing Argentine defender Juan Pablo Freytes from Alianza Lima. The club confirmed via its official channels on December 27, 2024, the acquisition of 70% of the player's economic rights. The 24-year-old Freytes is set to arrive in Brazil early January 2025 for medical examinations and to sign a four-year contract.
Freytes, who is known for being left-footed, has had an impressive career path, developing his skills at Newell's Old Boys. He has also played for Independiente Rivadavia and Unión La Calera before making his mark with Alianza Lima. Over the past season, he distinguished himself by playing 40 matches, scoring four goals, and providing four assists, demonstrating both defensive capability and offensive contribution.
His addition is part of Fluminense's strategy to address previous concerns during the last season, where the club faced significant difficulties, including the risk of relegation. After enjoying a successful 2023, culminating with winning the prestigious Copa Libertadores, the 2024 season was disappointing for the Tricolor, as the team appeared devoid of the intensity and quality displayed the previous year.
The decision to recruit Freytes aligns with the club's vision of rejuvenation and preparing for the future, keeping the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on the radar. The management, under Coach Mano Menezes, hopes Freytes can solidify the defensive line alongside seasoned player Thiago Silva, especially following the departure of Felipe Melo and uncertainties concerning the renewal of Manoel's contract.
Freytes has been on Fluminense's radar since mid-2024, particularly after facing them during the Copa Libertadores group stage. At the time, he shared competitive ties with fellow Argentine Kevin Serna, who joined Fluminense earlier this season. Reports indicate Freytes caught the attention of Fluminense for his performances against them, where he impressed the then-coach Fernando Diniz, leading to continued interest from the club.
Despite the positive outlook surrounding this signing, Fluminense did not disclose the financial terms of the deal. Nevertheless, acquiring Freytes is seen as a significant move to revitalize the squad, which is also welcoming the new signing of Hércules from Fortaleza, marking another step toward building a dynamic and youthful team.
Freytes is expected to be formally introduced to the club’s supporters upon completing his medical examinations and signing the official documents at the beginning of January. This arrival sets the stage for what Fluminense fans hope will be a revitalized campaign as the club bids for continued success and stability on both national and international fronts.
