Author: Soorya G
Brazilian giants Santos are expected to sign on the dotted line to complete the signing of midfielder Soteldo, somewhat reluctantly. However, the attacking midfielder, who has been suspended due to disciplinary problems, is unlikely to remain in the team.
The São Paulo club were trying to reverse the acquisition of the striker, who is currently on loan at Mexican club Tigres until Monday. On June 16, Santos announced that they would exercise the purchase option stipulated in the contract, for US$4 million. However, Santos were exploring ways to “return” Soteldo after the disciplinary incident, believing that as there was no signature, the purchase had not been completed. The Mexican club took an irreversible stance and considered the sale to be finalized.
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After considering alternatives, the team found itself without a way out, but should try to negotiate with the Venezuelan player in this transfer window. Internally, it is understood that there is no environment conducive to Soteldo staying, and there is a market for the player. Initially, he will not be reinstated. On Saturday, Santos suspended Soteldo for an alleged act of indiscipline with assistant coach Paulo Turra.
Internally, the club considered the player’s behavior to be recurring and supported the decision to suspend him and impose a fine. It remains to be seen whether Santos will be able to reverse the signing by finding a loophole in the agreement, but it is doubtful that they will. Therefore, selling the player is the only viable and agreeable option for all parties involved. The player himself, after
Santos 3-0 defeat to Cuiabá on Sunday
made a statement on social media about the case.
“Nobody knows what happened, but I’ll tell you soon. For now, you can say what you like. Good night” he said in a cryptic statement.