Key traits of rival midfielder linked with Corinthians

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Central do Timão

·16 January 2026

Key traits of rival midfielder linked with Corinthians

By Henrique Vigliotti/ Central do Timão Editorial Team

Corinthians continues to search the market for options to strengthen the squad led by Marcelo Paz and Dorival Júnior. The club has already announced Gabriel Paulista and Matheus Pereira and is very close to presenting right-back Pedro Milans, as well as winger Kaio César.

The current target is midfielder Alisson, who plays for São Paulo. Corinthians is trying to make the deal happen through a player exchange and has already offered Alex Santana, Héctor Hernández, and defender Renato—names that were rejected by their rival, who, in turn, suggested Raniele or José Martínez as players of interest for the deal to move forward.

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Photo: Miguel Schincariol/Getty Images

Alisson is a highly rated player and was requested by Dorival Júnior and his coaching staff, who managed him at São Paulo in the 2023 season. That year, the midfielder experienced a turnaround in his career, receiving support from the coach and winning over the tricolor fans.

Previously, Alisson played as a winger, in a style similar to André Carrillo. However, with the arrival of the coach, the player was adapted to the role of second central midfielder, in which he established himself for the rival, even being included in the preliminary list of call-ups for the Brazilian National Team by coach Dorival Jr himself during his tenure there.

In the last season, the midfielder played in 52 matches, scored one goal, and provided two assists. However, he was inconsistent in his performance level, even though he started in 39 of the 52 matches he played in 2025. In addition, the player also struggles with injuries and suffered a muscle problem last season that kept him off the pitch for over a month.

The player's departure has been under consideration and is seen as possible since Hernan Crespo's arrival at São Paulo, as Alisson has lost his place in the team. Of the 29 matches he was available for, the midfielder was a substitute in 14 of them, and in two he did not even take the field under the Argentine coach, who, according to reports, is already on shaky ground and could see his situation worsen depending on the result of the Majestoso this Sunday (18) at Neo Química Arena.

It is worth remembering that, in midfield, Corinthians lost midfielder Maycon, who transferred to Atlético-MG, and Ryan Gustavo, who was loaned to Fortaleza. On the other hand, the club has already signed and announced Matheus Pereira, a product of Terrão, who returned on loan from Fortaleza, with a fixed purchase price, though not disclosed.

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