The Brazilian club have already held initial conversations with the 42-year-old to understand his plans and approach, according to reports in Brazil, as they consider changes to their football department ahead of the 2027 season.
Brito only joined Palace earlier this year after leaving Botafogo, where he played a significant role in building the squad that won the Brazilian league and Copa Libertadores in 2024.
Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista is understood to regard him as one of the preferred candidates to take over from sporting director José Boto. However, the club have not made a final decision on Boto, whose future is expected to be discussed after the Brazilian league campaign concludes.
ESPN Brazil has reported that Flamengo have already spoken to Brito, with the conversations focused on his ideas, methods and ambitions. He has not ruled out a return to Brazilian football.
Boto remains under contract until the end of 2027, but his relationship with some figures at Flamengo has reportedly become strained. That uncertainty has prompted the club to consider alternatives, although Brito's potential appointment depends on whether a vacancy becomes available.
His possible departure would be a setback for Palace's recruitment operation in South America. Brito was brought to Selhurst Park to strengthen the club's knowledge of the Brazilian market and identify players who could make the move to English football.
He had previously spent four years at Botafogo, joining in 2022 as part of the project overseen by owner John Textor. His responsibilities grew during that period, eventually becoming director of sporting management.
Botafogo's success in 2024 enhanced his reputation, with the club winning both the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa Libertadores. Brito was involved in the recruitment structure that assembled the squad for those achievements.
Since moving to England, he has continued to monitor Brazilian talent. He has publicly acknowledged Palace's interest in Botafogo midfielder Danilo and Corinthians youngster André, while his scouting work has also included Cruzeiro goalkeeper Otávio.
The timing could be awkward for Palace, with the January transfer window approaching and the club looking to build on the South American recruitment network Brito has been developing.
For now, Flamengo's interest remains at an exploratory stage. The Brazilian side must first resolve Boto's position before deciding whether to pursue Brito more seriously.
But the initial contact means Crystal Palace cannot dismiss the possibility of losing a key figure in their recruitment operation just months after bringing him to the club.