Botafogo and Vasco in race for Matheus Gonçalves | OneFootball

Botafogo have made Matheus Gonçalves their priority signing and are battling Vasco as the window closes on Friday, 11. According to Coluna Do Fla, the Al Ahli midfielder is the focus of talks.

Botafogo’s proposal is a loan with an option to buy set at 12 million euros, about R$ 71 million, alongside a salary package that surpasses Vasco’s terms.

Vasco, from São Januário, have also moved, offering 10 million euros, about R$ 59 million, for the midfielder.

Botafogo like his versatility, as he can operate out wide and in midfield. The ex-Flamengo prospect fits several tactical roles.

Al Ahli signed him in August 2025 for eight million euros, about R$ 50 million at the time, and are not opposed to a return to Brazilian football.

A loan exit is one possible route, though the final model is still to be defined and hinges on further talks with the player. A meeting on Wednesday, nine, is set to shape his future before the deadline on Friday, 11.

Developed at Flamengo, Matheus Gonçalves experienced ups and downs, including a 2023 loan to Red Bull Bragantino. Back at Flamengo, he had chances but did not cement a place, later moving to the under-20s under Filipe Luís and winning the junior Club World Cup.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”