Bahia's football club is making headlines as it aims to bolster its roster for the upcoming 2025 season by pursuing the return of midfielder Douglas Augusto from Nantes, France. This move is particularly notable as it marks Bahia's ambitious efforts to strengthen their squad following their long-awaited return to international competition.
On December 19, 2024, reports emerged indicating Bahia had formally submitted a bid worth 4 million euros (approximately R$ 25.6 million) to secure Augusto’s transfer. Known for his impressive skills and strategic play, Douglas has been making waves since his move to Nantes at the start of the 2023/24 season, where he has established himself as a key player.
A brief history of Douglas Augusto reveals his unique connection to Bahia. Initially showcasing his talent during a loan period from Corinthians in 2019, he quickly became a fan favorite. During his time at Bahia, he played 30 matches, starting 29 of them, proving to be integral to the team's midfield dynamics.
Notably, after leaving Bahia, Douglas spent several years honing his craft with PAOK FC, where he made 126 appearances, netting 12 goals and assisting five times. His strong performance there enabled him to secure his place at Nantes, contributing to the club's campaigns, though they currently find themselves struggling toward the bottom of the Ligue 1 table.
According to reports from Globo Esporte, Douglas has shown interest in returning to Bahia, having accepted the terms discussed for the possible deal. The club is eagerly waiting for Nantes to approve the transfer. He is expected to return to Brazil soon to finalize the details with his agent. The reported fee of around R$ 25 million aims to ease the negotiations, yet approval from the French club remains the final hurdle.
The interest from Bahia is described as ‘a dream come true’ for many fans, as they attempted to bring Douglas back at the beginning of 2023 but were thwarted by PAOK's steep asking price of 5 million euros. This time around, the club is hopeful for a more favorable outcome, as Douglas is eager to return to the Esquadrão.
Simultaneously, Bahia is also eyeing another midfielder, Erick, from Athletico Paranaense, with plans to strengthen the team’s midfield, which has faced criticism earlier this year. Bahia's bid of 2 million euros for Erick signifies their commitment to enhancing their player roster.
Yet the club faces stiff competition for Erick’s signature from other teams, including Santos and Internacional, both of which have also expressed their interest and made offers. This puts Bahia at risk of losing out on two potentially game-changing signings.
Douglas Augusto’s return would not just offer Bahia improved performance on the field but is also imbued with sentimental value, considering how he made his mark during his previous time at the club. Since his departure, fans often reminisced about his contributions and the gaps left behind after his exit.
His unique style of play, characterized by passing and offensive support, significantly changed the dynamics of Bahia's midfield during his initial tenure. Under the coaching of Enderson Moreira, Douglas formed strong partnerships within the squad, including with Gregore, making them one of the standouts of 2019.
From January to June 2019, Douglas left such a strong legacy during his brief time with Bahia, spearheading their midfield as they navigated difficult matches. Replacing him, unfortunately, proved challenging, as subsequent signings failed to fill the void he left.
Now, as Bahia prepares for their major return to Libertadores competition after 36 years, bringing experienced players like Douglas Augusto could prove pivotal. He not only brings skill and experience but also familiarity with the club and its fans—an element often overlooked during player acquisitions.
With such significant financial proposals and rapid advancements with player negotiations, the outlook for Bahia’s squad reshaping appears promising. If Douglas and Erick sign, it may signal the beginning of a new era for Bahia as they strive for success both domestically and internationally.
With all eyes now on Nantes for their decision, fans across Brazil hold their breath, hoping for Douglas’s return to contribute to Bahia’s resurgence. The upcoming weeks will be pivotal as the club navigates through negotiations, competing interests, and the promising prospect of reuniting with one of their beloved players.
