São Paulo has opened negotiations to sign defensive midfielder Rodrigo Dourado, 32, who is not in the plans of América in Mexico. The São Paulo management has already made contact to assess the conditions for a deal and is initially working with the possibility of a loan with an option to buy.
The signing of a defensive midfielder is considered a priority by coach Dorival Júnior. The manager requested reinforcements for the position to strengthen the team for the remainder of the season and the return of Brazilian football. In addition to a player for the midfield, São Paulo is also seeking a new center-back.
Negotiations progressing, but no agreement yet
In recent days, São Paulo had advanced in negotiations with Botafogo involving an exchange of center-back Nahuel Ferraresi for midfielder Newton. However, talks have stalled due to a lack of response from the Rio de Janeiro club, prompting São Paulo’s management to broaden its options in the transfer market.
With the need to offer new alternatives to Dorival Júnior before competitions resume, Rodrigo Dourado’s name has gained traction behind the scenes. The player is reportedly open to the initial conditions proposed by São Paulo.
Dourado joined América in January of this year, signed at the request of Brazilian coach André Jardine. However, after a change in the Mexican team’s coaching staff, the midfielder lost prominence. The new coach, Guillermo Almada, does not count on the player for the remainder of the season, opening the door for a possible departure.
A product of Internacional’s youth academy, Rodrigo Dourado played for the Porto Alegre club between 2012 and 2022, appearing in over 300 matches and serving as captain on several occasions. In 2022, he was transferred to Atlético San Luis in Mexico for approximately R$2.5 million.
