Santos end move for Botafogo midfielder Newton before deadline | OneFootball

Santos have abandoned their bid to sign Botafogo midfielder Newton, citing insufficient time to complete the deal as planned. The move had been pursued at head coach Cuca’s request, and the transfer window shuts at 23:59 on Friday.

According to Globo.com, both clubs rushed to finalise terms but talks snagged on details, including valuation. The proposal involved no cash changing hands, with Santos set to write off Botafogo’s debt relating to defender Jair Cunha in exchange for Newton.

Santos aimed to settle the operation at 3 million euros, roughly R$ 18 million, the sum Botafogo must pay this year for Jair Cunha’s signing from the São Paulo club last year. Botafogo sought additional money to receive part of the fee rather than only offsetting the debt.

Newton suffered a right shoulder injury in the 14 March clássico against Flamengo in the Brasileirão. He is sidelined until early April.

The midfielder joined Botafogo in 2024 after leaving Jacuipense and was loaned to Criciúma. Under Martín Anselmi he earned more minutes early in 2026 and even featured at centre-back. With reinforcements signed, he returned to midfield and has 69 appearances, one goal and one assist.

Source: Globo.com