São Paulo has already begun planning for the next transfer window and has set clear priorities to strengthen the squad. The club’s management is seeking three key additions: a defensive midfielder, an attacking midfielder who can also play on the left side, and a center back. The goal is to reinforce positions considered essential for the team’s balance and competitiveness in the coming season.
One name that was recently discussed internally was Paulo Henrique Ganso, who is expected to leave Fluminense. However, São Paulo decided against moving forward with that option. The main reasons were his high salary and advanced age. The club’s strategy this window is to focus on players under 30, prioritizing younger profiles with potential for immediate impact and longer-term value.
At the moment, São Paulo has shifted its attention to Newton, a 26-year-old defensive midfielder who belongs to Botafogo. He is seen as a strong candidate because he plays as a first midfielder, exactly the role the club wants to reinforce. Newton has lost ground in Botafogo’s squad over the course of the season, which may increase the chances of a transfer. In 2026, he has played 17 matches and scored one goal.
The search for a first-choice holding midfielder reflects São Paulo’s effort to improve stability in midfield and provide better protection for the defensive line. Alongside that, the club wants a more creative attacker capable of operating on the left flank, giving the team more versatility in the final third. The addition of a center back would further deepen the squad and help address defensive needs.
São Paulo’s transfer strategy suggests a balance between immediate reinforcement and financial discipline. By avoiding a move for Ganso and targeting younger players such as Newton, the club is signaling that it wants to invest in athletes who can contribute over a longer period without creating excessive wage pressure. The coming weeks are expected to bring more movement as the club continues negotiations and evaluates options for the next window.
