Vasco eye loan move for Paulista rival’s full-back until 2026 | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama has already started the race against time to build a competitive squad for the 2026 season. With the confirmation of a serious injury to Lucas Piton, who will miss the start of next year, the club’s management has identified an urgent need at left-back and has set its sights on a target in the domestic market. According to exclusive information from the NTVascaínos channel, the club is interested in signing Caio Paulista on loan.

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The contractual situation of the target

The 27-year-old player is currently facing uncertainty in his career, which could make it easier for the Gigante da Colina to make a move. At the moment, Caio Paulista is on loan at Atlético-MG, but he is unlikely to remain in Belo Horizonte for the next season. His economic rights belong to Palmeiras, with whom he has a long-term contract valid until December 31, 2028.

However, reports indicate that the player is not part of coach Abel Ferreira’s or the Palmeiras board’s plans for 2026. This “release list” scenario at the São Paulo club opens a perfect window for Vasco to negotiate a loan under favorable conditions, bringing in a player with Série A experience and a background at major clubs.

Caio Paulista is on loan at Galo but is not expected to stay – Photo: Pedro Souza / Atlético

Gap in the squad and doubts about the reserves

The pursuit of Caio Paulista is a direct response to the uncertainty surrounding Vasco’s defensive sector. In addition to the confirmed absence of first-choice Lucas Piton in the first months of the year, the coaching staff does not have confidence in the current backup options. Victor Luis and the young Leandrinho had opportunities during the 2025 season, but neither managed to establish themselves or inspire the necessary confidence to take on a starting role in what promises to be a demanding year.

Caio Paulista, who began his career as a forward and was adapted to left-back (standing out in this role at rivals Fluminense), would bring the attacking drive and physical strength that Vasco is looking for. Negotiations are in the early stages, but this is seen as a viable market opportunity to solve one of the squad’s main problems before preseason.

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.