Corinthians coach confirms talks over Cacá departure amid Athletico-PR interest | OneFootball

Corinthians coach Dorival Júnior says talks are under way over Cacá’s potential departure and explained the defender was omitted from the win against Capivariano to avoid risking him during negotiations.

According to Meu Timao, Athletico-PR are in discussions to sign the centre-back in what is their second approach after an enquiry in January. Those talks cooled because of Corinthians’ debts related to Alex Santana and Cacá’s poor showing against Red Bull Bragantino.

Dorival currently has five options at centre-back, Gustavo Henrique, Gabriel Paulista, André Ramalho, João Pedro Tchoca and Cacá, with Tchoca competing directly for minutes. Teenager Iago Machado, 16, has trained with the senior group but is expected to return to the under-20s. Renato remains out of the plans, and Félix Torres has been loaned to Internacional this window.

Corinthians completed Cacá’s permanent signing in December 2024 for 2 million dollars after a mandatory clause was triggered once he reached 2,200 minutes, acquiring 60% of his economic rights. His contract runs until December 2028, with a domestic release clause set at R$ 300 million.

Alex Santana joined from Athletico-PR in July 2024 for about R$ 13 million, a fee still pending, and he, like Renato, is free to negotiate a move. Since arriving, Cacá has played 72 games, starting 65, scored 8 goals, delivered 1 assist and lifted the 2025 Campeonato Paulista and Copa do Brasil, plus the 2026 Supercopa do Brasil.

Source: Meu Timao