Left-back becomes major headache for Cuca at Santos, options assessed | OneFootball

The left-back position is a major problem for Cuca at Santos, with only Escobar available and a FIFA transfer ban blocking registrations. According to Globo.com, he must find an internal solution.

Vinícius Lira, 18, tore the ACL in his left knee in March. He continued rehab at CT Rei Pelé during the break, with no return date.

Rafael Gonzaga was tested earlier this year but deemed not ready and sent back to the under-20s.

Cuca had planned to recruit in the next window, a plan now complicated. Football executive Alexandre Mattos has indicated signings will happen only if new revenue emerges.

Escobar is first choice and has more than 100 appearances. His deal expires at the end of the year, so he can already sign a pre-contract elsewhere. The club are seeking a renewal.

Luan Peres could cover at left-back, having played there under Jorge Sampaoli in 2019 and under Cuca in 2020. He is currently a starting centre-back with Lucas Veríssimo.

Álvaro Barreal is another option, though he is viewed as more attacking and less suited to defensive cover. Centre-back João Ananias could also fill in, having played the role for the under-20s under Vinícius Marques, who now assists the Meninos da Vila in their transition to the senior group.

Source: Globo.com