Backstage friction and poaching claim sees Corinthians end pursuit of Bahia forward Kayky | OneFootball

Corinthians came close to signing Bahia forward Kayky for 2026, but pulled out amid backstage friction and a poaching row involving Kauê Furquim.

According to Globo.com, after executive Marcelo Paz had arranged terms with Kayky’s representatives, the board decided it would be hypocritical to negotiate with Bahia while pursuing a poaching case.

Last year Bahia paid the prospect’s release clause, around R$ 14 million, taking him from Parque São Jorge. Corinthians argue it amounted to poaching by a foreign entity and call the conduct illicit and immoral. Through CBF and Fifa they are seeking €50 million, claiming Bahia would be a bridge to a future City Group move to Europe.

Bahia maintain there is no rift with Corinthians. The club and City Group point to the renewal of Talles Magno’s loan last season as evidence of a good relationship.

The first contact over Kayky came last Thursday, when the sides met at Vila Belmiro in the opening round of the Campeonato Brasileiro. Talks quickened from Thursday to Saturday, and Corinthians directors called the player as optimism grew.

Encouraged by the move, Kayky prioritised Corinthians over another Série A negotiation, and his barber posted a hawk emoji, a nod to the club’s main organised fans.

In the days after that post the deal changed course. Once president Osmar Stabile was briefed, he chose not to proceed. The club argue Kayky’s numbers last season were not good and that he was only evaluated internally after being offered by the market.

Source: Globo.com