Fortaleza chief details Corinthians negotiations and reveals heated discussion with Paz | OneFootball

Fortaleza chief Bruno Cals has detailed talks with Corinthians over Matheus Pereira and João Ricardo, with Ryan moving the other way, and said there was a heated discussion with Paz.

"We put together a deal for Matheus Pereira on loan with an option to buy, João Ricardo on loan, and Ryan coming in. The clubs reached a commercial agreement. João Ricardo is a fine goalkeeper, Matheus is a great athlete. Can I keep both with their costs? I cannot. I will not be irresponsible and then fail to pay," he told ge.globo.

Corinthians have arranged João Ricardo’s loan to the end of 2026, but expect him only in March after a shoulder injury and will wait for final tests before completing the move. Matheus Pereira re-debuted in the 1-1 draw with São Paulo on Sunday. Ryan was unveiled by Fortaleza on Wednesday.

Marcelo Paz, now Corinthians’ football executive, led talks with new Fortaleza CEO Pedro Martins, with Cals stepping in when negotiations stalled. "In a very respectful way, we had a very heated discussion, because we were defending what we think is best for the club. We reached a composition we consider beneficial," Cals said.

Fortaleza’s package reflects a 2026 wage-bill reduction after relegation to Série B in 2025. Corinthians visit Santos at Vila Belmiro on Thursday at 19:30 in the fourth round of the Campeonato Paulista.

Source: Meu Timao