São Paulo resolve novela e garante titular até 2028 | OneFootball

São Paulo have secured centre-back Alan Franco on a new contract that will keep him at the MorumBIS through the end of 2028, according to Arquibancada Tricolor. The new agreement was finalized on Sunday, just before Franco traveled to Medellín for São Paulo’s Copa Libertadores round of 16 first leg against Atlético Nacional.

Franco’s previous contract was set to expire in December, a situation that would have allowed the defender to negotiate a pre-contract with other clubs as early as next month. Instead, São Paulo moved quickly to avoid losing him on a free transfer, tying him down for four more years. Arquibancada Tricolor reports that the renewal also includes a salary adjustment reflecting Franco’s status within the squad.

Negotiations for the new deal were protracted in part because of outstanding commission payments to Franco’s representatives. That issue was resolved in tandem with the formalization of the new contract. Franco, who has appeared in 31 matches for São Paulo so far this season, was said to be keen to remain at the club—a sentiment that ultimately contributed to the successful conclusion of talks.

The timing of Franco’s renewal comes as São Paulo reshapes its roster ahead of a crucial stage in the continental campaign. The club recently made several changes to its Libertadores squad, as noted by Arquibancada Tricolor, bringing in Gonzalo Tapia and Juan Dinenno while saying farewell to the likes of Matheus Alves and Igor Vinícius.

Retaining Franco gives São Paulo continuity in central defense as they look to navigate a demanding schedule and maintain competitiveness in both domestic and international competitions. His presence, alongside key figures such as Arboleda, provides some stability at a time when the club has had to adjust both its squad and finances. With speculation about potential player sales continuing to swirl, and budget pressures highlighted in recent statements by director Carlos Belmonte, renewing Franco’s contract demonstrates São Paulo’s intention to preserve the core of its back line as the season enters its decisive months.

(Original reporting from Arquibancada Tricolor)

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