Gabigol, a top target for Cruzeiro, is also attracting interest from Santos.
The talented striker Gabriel Barbosa, popularly known as Gabigol, has confirmed he will not stay at Flamengo beyond 2024. While Cruzeiro reportedly has a verbal agreement with the player for a four-year contract, Santos has entered the race, with its president Marcelo Teixeira confirming the club’s formal proposal for the 28-year-old.
Santos Makes a Move
In an interview on “Redação Sportv,” Marcelo Teixeira shared details about Santos’ bid to bring Gabigol back to the club where he began his career.
“We’ve made an offer to him and his father. I’ve known Gabriel and his family since his teenage years and know their integrity. As of now, they haven’t given us a definitive answer about which club they will choose. We’re waiting for their decision,” said Teixeira.
A Tight Race for Gabigol
Gabigol has been one of the hottest names in Brazilian football. He recently announced his departure from Flamengo after their Copa do Brasil victory against Atlético-MG at Arena MRV, Belo Horizonte. Cruzeiro appeared to have secured the striker with a verbal agreement, but Santos’ renewed interest could change the course of negotiations.
Teixeira emphasized Santos’ capability to make the deal happen, with financial backing from partners prepared to support the acquisition.
“The Gabigol situation is clear. We spoke with his family and we have a close relationship. There was a past disagreement between him and the club, so we wanted to understand how to move forward. We’ve explored alternative ways to finance the deal and involved partners to structure a viable proposal,” Teixeira added.
Cruzeiro vs. Santos: Who Will Win the Race?
While Cruzeiro holds an edge with a pre-agreed contract, Santos’ historical connection with Gabigol and their efforts to rebuild their squad for the future add an intriguing twist to the transfer saga. Both clubs are vying for the striker, who remains undecided about his next move.
What’s Next for Gabigol?
Gabigol’s decision will likely depend on financial terms, club ambitions, and personal relationships. For now, the football world waits as one of Brazil’s most prolific strikers evaluates his options.
Stay tuned as this story develops—Gabigol’s next chapter could reshape the fortunes of whichever club secures his signature.
