Academy gem catches Cuca's eye at Santos, details | OneFootball

With no major signings expected before the transfer window opens in July, coach Cuca has been digging for in-house solutions to strengthen Santos’ squad for the second half of the season.

The latest name is young Pepê Fermino, a 19-year-old midfielder who has been catching the coaching staff’s attention at CT Rei Pelé, according to ge.

💎 Versatility and Opportunity

The youngster’s biggest asset is his ability to fill multiple roles on the pitch — a trait highly valued by Cuca, as it allows for tactical changes during matches without the need to burn substitutions.

Tactical Development: Although he first stood out at the U-15 level as a goal-scoring playmaker, Pepê can also play out wide or even as a second defensive midfielder (a role he performed recently alongside Samuel Pierri).

Match Fitness: During the first-team squad’s vacation during the World Cup break, he dropped down to reinforce the U-20 side. He earned a starting spot, scored two goals, and was a key figure in securing Peixe’s qualification in the Brazilian Championship for the age group.

Room in the First Team: Back in training under Cuca, expectations are that he will get minutes and be tested in the upcoming mid-season friendlies. He was already included on the senior team’s bench in the win over Vitória in the 18th round of the Brasileirão.

📈 Journey and Ironclad Contract

At the club since 2018, when he was just 11 years old, Pepê has built an impressive résumé in the youth ranks. In 2022, he was the runner-up top scorer in the Paulista U-15 Championship and was called up to Brazil’s youth national team. In 2023, he piled up titles such as the Paulista Cup U-16 and the Copa Brasileirinho (where he was named best player). Last year, he won the Paulista U-20 Championship, starting in much of the campaign.

To protect their prospect from international interest, the Santos board wasted no time and signed him to a strong contract in August last year:

Contract term: Valid until June 30, 2030.

Release clause: Set at €100 million (approximately R$ 590.6 million at the current exchange rate).

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

📸 MIGUEL SCHINCARIOL - AFP or licensors