João Paulo returns to Santos training after Bahia loan ends | OneFootball

João Paulo trained with Santos at CT Rei Pelé on Wednesday after his Bahia loan ended on Tuesday. Bahia chose not to buy, so the goalkeeper has returned.

According to Diario Do Peixe, he underwent tests with Grupo City before being cleared to return.

Loaned in August last year with clauses including a possible obligation to buy, he had said his goodbyes on social media. He did not play in 2025, then this year featured in six Baiano matches and two Serie A games.

His deal runs to the end of 2027, but his situation is unresolved. Santos planned to sell Gabriel Brazão, yet no suitable offers have arrived, and a FIFA transfer ban means funds are needed to register players. João Paulo could replace Brazão if he goes, or be sold, with the international window opening on day 20 and closing on 11 September, and a CBF domestic window from 9 to 17 this month.

Brazão has played more than 13 times in the Brasileirão, so cannot join another Serie A side, while João Paulo can. Botafogo and Corinthians made enquiries, but the board ruled out Botafogo over monies owed, and the goalkeeper was not keen on Corinthians out of respect for his Santos history.

Goalkeeper coach Arzul, recently back at the club, trusts Diógenes, Rodrigo Falcão and João Pedro from the under-20s, all on new deals, and also has long-standing faith in João Paulo.

Source: Diario Do Peixe