Santos must decide future of three players returning from loan

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·15. Juni 2026

Santos must decide future of three players returning from loan

Santos need to decide the future of three players whose loan contracts expire on June 30. According to Diário do Peixe, goalkeeper João Paulo and forwards Gustavo Caballero and Billal Brahimi are in different situations and are waiting for the next steps from the Santos board.

Here is the situation of each player:

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João Paulo (Goalkeeper)

He is the only one with a real chance of being reintegrated into the team. The possible sale of current starter Gabriel Brazão opens up space for the keeper, who has the backing of coach Cuca.
Loan Spell Performance: He was loaned to Bahia in August last year under a deal that included a mandatory purchase clause if certain targets were met. As he failed to establish himself, the Bahia club ruled out a permanent move. After not playing in 2025, the goalkeeper has made only eight appearances this year (six in the Campeonato Baiano and two in Série A).
Contract with Santos: valid until the end of 2027.

Gustavo Caballero (Forward)

The club expects to do business involving the player soon. As he is playing in the World Cup with the Paraguay national team, Santos hope his performances in the tournament will attract market interest.
Loan Spell Performance: Loaned to Portsmouth (England) in February, he scored only once in 12 Championship matches.
Contract with Santos: valid until July 2027.

Billal Brahimi (Forward)

The forward is not expected to stay. The prior agreement with Brahimi’s representatives stated that Santos would fully cover his salary during the loan period. Now, with midyear approaching, the Legal Department is expected to handle the contract termination.
Loan Spell Performance: Also loaned out in February, the player turned out for Estrela Amadora (Portugal), making only four Liga Portugal appearances.
Contract with Santos: valid until the end of this year.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

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