São Paulo bid to sign midfielder on loan, but Bahia want a permanent deal | OneFootball

São Paulo received some discouraging news early Monday evening (19th) in its search for reinforcements to support coach Hernán Crespo. The Tricolor finally entered the market after freezing negotiations last week due to the political uncertainty caused by the impeachment of Julio Casares. With Harry Massis assuming the presidency, inquiries resumed.

The Morumbi club sent an official proposal in the morning to sign the attacking midfielder Cauly, from Bahia, aged 30. According to our findings, the offer, whose values were not disclosed, was for a one-season loan with a purchase clause if goals such as the number of games were achieved.

The team from Salvador (BA) rejected the approach during the afternoon and seemed to have ended the talks.

However, a few hours ago, Bahia's directors resumed talks with football executive Rui Costa. They stated they are willing to negotiate Cauly, provided the purchase is definitive right now. The asking price was 10 million euros (around R$ 62.5 million). And obviously, it's too much for São Paulo's current budget, which thanked them and promised to return soon. The truth is, as we know: there isn't enough money available for that.

Cauly is ambidextrous and highly regarded by idol Rogério Ceni. This season, he has caught the attention of other clubs. Rival Corinthians was one of those who inquired about his situation, along with Internacional and Fluminense.

Despite being born in Bahia, the player has only played professionally in Brazil for the Salvador team, having been signed in 2023 from Ludogorets, Bulgaria. Before that, he only played in Germany. Besides being an attacking midfielder, he can also play on the wings. He is contracted with Bahia until the end of 2028.

The arrival of an attacking midfielder is a priority for São Paulo, which is currently using Lucas in the role, after Oscar decided to retire and the club sold Rodriguinho to Bragantino. On Monday, the Tricolor made an official proposal for the loan of Julián Fernández, a 21-year-old prospect from New York City.

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