Flamengo manager Filipe Luis has spoken candidly about his talks with Carlos Alcaraz over his transfer to Everton.

The Argentina midfielder is set to be David Moyes' first signing since his return to the club as manager. Alcaraz is poised to join the Blues on an initial loan deal, although the transfer could become permanent in the summer if various performance-related criteria are met.

The 22-year-old has already had four major moves in his career and is poised to leave the Brazilian giants just six months after they broke their club-record transfer to sign him.

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Luis, who enjoyed a stellar playing career with Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and the Brazilian national team, was asked about Alcaraz's move during his press conference on Friday and suggested the midfielder was in two minds before making his decision.

"Alcaraz called me on Thursday and said, 'Filipe, I want to talk. I have an offer from Everton Are you counting on me?'" he said, per Placar (h/t Sport Witness).

"I said, 'You're after someone in your position, you're after all of them.' It's up to you to want to fight and fight for your place on the team. He said, 'Okay, I'll fight for your place on the team.'

"I told him what I thought I wanted to improve; we had a sincere conversation. He said, 'Okay. I'll try.' He showed it, he scored the goal, he played well. The next day, he decided to leave."

Despite the uncertainty, the former defender spoke warmly about Alcaraz and made it clear he wanted the Argentine to thrive in whatever step he takes in his career.

"I'm sad, I feel like it's my failure, his failure for not working out in my hands," said Luis. "Given the investment made, that was my concern, a big investment and I'm not getting the best out of him.

"He decided to leave. I believe he can be happy. I sent him a message and he replied. I love Alcaraz. Why did he get minutes? Because he doesn't give up, he wants to learn, he tries, he fights, he makes an effort.

"He runs, runs, runs. I insisted until the end. Not everyone will succeed. I hope he's happy, I love this kid."

Alcaraz has only made 15 appearances for Flamengo in all competitions, scoring three goals. He has already had spells with Southampton and Juventus after leaving Racing Club in 2023.