The 42-year-old only arrived at Selhurst Park earlier this year, taking charge of recruitment in South America. He’s since been busy looking for talent in Brazil, with several players on Palace’s radar.
Now, though, one of the country’s biggest clubs wants him back. And this is already going a little further than a name on a shortlist.
Flamengo have already spoken to Crystal Palace man
Brazilian journalist Raisa Simplicio broke the news on Friday, revealing that Brito is among the preferred candidates of Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista.
The Rio de Janeiro club are considering replacing sporting director José Boto. No final decision has been made, and discussions over his future will take place after the Brazilian league season finishes.
ESPN Brazil have since confirmed the interest and added something important: initial conversations with Brito have already happened.
Those discussions were aimed at understanding his plans, ideas and working methods. The broadcaster also says Brito is highly valued at Crystal Palace, who would feel his loss.
Either way, both reports agreed on one thing: he hasn’t closed the door on a possible return to Brazilian football.
Boto, meanwhile, has a contract running until the end of 2027. His relationship with certain figures inside Flamengo has become strained, according to ESPN, leaving his future uncertain.
So Crystal Palace aren’t facing an immediate departure. Flamengo still need to decide whether there’s actually a vacancy to fill.
Palace’s South American plans could take a hit
Brito’s reputation in Brazil comes largely from his four years at Botafogo. He joined John Textor’s project in 2022 and helped build the squad that won the Brazilian league and Copa Libertadores in 2024.
He eventually became director of sporting management before leaving in May 2026. Crystal Palace then brought him in to strengthen their recruitment operation across the Americas. And he’s already been putting that knowledge to work.
Back in September, Brito publicly confirmed Palace were monitoring Botafogo midfielder Danilo and Corinthians youngster André.
And earlier this month, we covered his trip to watch Cruzeiro goalkeeper Otávio. The Brazilian had actually tried to sign the youngster for Botafogo before moving to England.
So there’s clearly work underway. Losing the man leading those efforts would hardly be ideal, especially with the January transfer window approaching.
There’s another interesting detail here. Brito previously turned down the chance to stay in Brazilian football, choosing Palace to take his career abroad. Flamengo would now be testing that decision only a few months later.
For the moment, though, the English club have some breathing space. Boto’s future is still unresolved, and Flamengo haven’t committed to replacing him.
The next move belongs to the Brazilian side. But with their president reportedly keen and initial conversations already held, Palace have good reason to keep an eye on what’s happening in Rio.
