Erick Pulgar in talks with Saudi clubs as Flamengo drags its feet on a new deal

He scored a beauty against Vitoria over the weekend, and this week he could be saying goodbye to Rio de Janeiro. That's how fast soccer moves, and that's how uncertain the present looks for Erick Pulgar at Flamengo, right when the Chilean is going through one of his best stretches in the black and red jersey.

According to a report from Brazilian outlet Diario do Estado, representatives for the Antofagasta-born midfielder are set to hold meetings in the coming days with clubs from Saudi Arabia interested in paying his release clause, set at $4 million. For the standards of the Saudi market, that figure is practically pocket change.

What stands out is the timing of this push. Flamengo and Pulgar's camp have spent weeks discussing a possible contract renewal, with his current deal running through the end of 2027. The club wants to lock down one of the most consistent midfielders in its squad, but the talks haven't moved as quickly as everyone would like.

The reason? Money, like almost always. The Brazilian outlet laid out the situation bluntly:

Pulgar has built a bond with the club, but he also made financial demands in a recent renewal proposal. He's looking for a salary more in line with other midfielders on the team who have seen less playing time.Diario do Estado

That's where the crux of the matter lies. The Chilean isn't asking for an outrageous contract or anything out of line, based on that reporting: he simply wants his salary to reflect his role within the team, something many fans and local analysts consider fair when compared to what other midfielders on the roster earn despite playing less than he does.

A week that could decide everything

Diario do Estado's report was blunt in calling the coming days decisive. Not just for Pulgar's personal future, but for Flamengo's direction for the rest of the season, given how important the midfielder has become within the coach's setup.

Pulgar arrived in Rio de Janeiro tagged as a rotation piece and ended up earning a regular starting spot, contributing goals, sharp ball control and experience in the middle of the pitch. That recent goal against Vitoria in the Brasileirao is proof his level keeps rising, something that hasn't gone unnoticed in Brazil or, clearly, in the Saudi market.

Now the ball is in the Rio club's court: either improve the offer and keep one of its key midfield figures, or risk losing a player in top form right when the team needs stability the most. The decision, by all indications, could come down in a matter of days.