Palmeiras trigger buy option, agree new deal with Larson | OneFootball

Palmeiras confirmed this Tuesday the permanent signing of young midfielder Larson, 20 years old. The club exercised the purchase option with Goiás and signed a long-term contract with the player, which extends until the end of 2030. Larson had already been training and playing with the professional team since the beginning of the season.

Larson arrived at Palmeiras on loan for the youth team and quickly caught attention. In the Under-20s, the player took part in 32 matches, scored three goals, and was crowned Brazilian champion of the category in 2025. His performance led him to be noticed by Abel Ferreira’s coaching staff, who integrated him into first-team training at the end of 2025. In the same year, the youngster was included in the squad and played in two matches, one as a substitute and another as a starter. In 2026, he has already accumulated more appearances, starting matches and providing an assist in a game against Portuguesa.

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Larson – Photo: Fabio Menotti / Palmeiras

Dream Come True and Professionalism

In his first statements after signing the contract, Larson expressed his happiness and the fulfillment of a dream. “I am very happy, it’s a dream. When I came to Palmeiras, I knew it would be a huge challenge. I joined the Under-20s and continued with what I had in mind to reach the professional team. I knew it would be very difficult and I fought hard to experience what I am living today. Now, more than ever, it’s about keeping my feet on the ground and continuing to work and evolve,” said the player. He emphasized the importance of living and learning with more experienced players.

Tactical Evolution and Position Adaptation

Born in Pelotas (RS), Larson revealed that he started his career as an attacking midfielder and later played as a defensive midfielder at Goiás. “I started as a number 10, I was never a marker, but we have to adapt. At Goiás, I changed positions, moved to the number 8 role and started marking, fulfilling duties, and understanding the game more tactically,” he explained. He highlighted the importance of modern football, which requires contribution both in defense and attack, and praised the support of Palmeiras’ professionals for his development.

Larson’s rise is part of Palmeiras’ successful youth academy history. Since 2020, 51 players developed in the club’s youth categories have already played for the professional team. The 2021 season set a record for the century with 14 debuts. The year 2025 saw eight youngsters make their debut, including Larson, who now cements himself with a long-term contract.

Inspiration in the Name

Larson’s name also carries a curious story, inspired by former Swedish player Henrik Larsson. The athlete’s father, a football enthusiast, chose the name in honor of the star who shone at Barcelona and for the Swedish national team. He also named his other son Thierry, in reference to Thierry Henry.

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