Corinthians agree deal for Gabriel Paulista amid Vini Jr racism row | OneFootball

Corinthians may have a contentious addition for the Supercopa do Brasil against Flamengo on 1 February, after agreeing a deal to sign centre-back Gabriel Paulista.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the 35-year-old has left Besiktas in Türkiye after limited opportunities and agreed a two-season contract to return to Brazil.

He drew criticism in 2023 when Valencia supporters racially abused Vini Jr during a match against Real Madrid at Mestalla, and he later praised the atmosphere on social media. The defender subsequently said he is not racist, insisted those responsible must be punished, and added that only a small section of the crowd committed the crime. He said he respected Vini Jr and that his post had been misunderstood.

Gabriel Paulista has given up €4.5 million, R$ 28.3 million, owed by Besiktas to complete the move. He will race against time to be available.

The match is scheduled for Estádio Mané Garrincha in Brasília. Flamengo are chasing a fourth Supercopa title, while Corinthians are aiming for a second. It will pit the current Brasileirão winners against the 2025 Copa do Brasil champions.

Source: Coluna Do Fla