Palmeiras in talks over pre-contract for Alexander Barboza | OneFootball

According to Globo.com, Palmeiras and Alexander Barboza have discussed a possible pre-contract, with the Botafogo centre-back free to agree terms from July as his deal runs until December.

The early conversations with the defender’s representatives were viewed as positive, and Barboza has outlined his requirements for any agreement.

For now, both parties view any move as one for next season. Palmeiras are taking a cautious approach and are not rushing to pay for a transfer that would bring him in this year.

That stance could change if their priority target Nino, currently at Zenit, proves unattainable in the next window. Should negotiations with the Zenit defender not reach a successful conclusion, Palmeiras could approach Botafogo to seek Barboza’s immediate release in return for a fee.

Barboza had attempted to renew with Botafogo, but the club’s financial difficulties stalled talks. He sought guarantees beyond salary, including the continued presence of Alessandro Brito, director of sporting management, and Deive Bandeira, director of trading.

A renewal until the end of 2029 was lined up in January with his camp and the board, although no contract was signed. Botafogo have not been formally notified about Palmeiras’ contact, but privately accept that initial approaches have taken place and now see renewal as more complicated, even as they still want him to stay.

A recent idol at the club, Barboza won the Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro in 2024. He has made 117 appearances for Botafogo, scoring four goals and providing four assists.

Source: Globo.com