São Paulo FC is making swift moves to secure the signing of midfielder Thiago Mendes from Al-Rayyan before the closing of the transfer window. The urgency is underscored by the recent injury to Pablo Maia, which has left the club needing immediate reinforcements. The deadline for the transfer is set for this Friday, February 28, 2025.
Thiago Mendes, 32, has had previous spells with São Paulo, where he played 142 matches and recorded 11 goals and 11 assists. He was sold to Lille for €9 million back in June 2017 after impressing during his time at the club. Mendes then moved to Lyon before finding himself at Al-Rayyan, where he currently has a contract until June 30, 2025.
São Paulo's administration was drawn back to the negotiation table for Mendes after Maial's serious ankle injury requiring surgery was announced. Hopes have risen as reports indicate there might be progress, with the Tricolor needing to finalize terms swiftly.
On the financial side, Mendes may have to accept a cut to his current salary, but projections suggest he could see increases starting next year. São Paulo's attempt to repatriate him marks the third effort within recent months, the previous ones stumbling primarily over Al-Rayyan's financial demands.
Efforts to lure Mendes back have faced hurdles, especially with the need for creative financial solutions. Sources familiar with the negotiations have suggested the club is exploring ways to implement a salary structure allowing for adjustment over his tenure—lower initially, but rising should he remain for the full contract duration.
A recent assessment by the club highlighted Mendes's potential return as promising, following conversations held with the player’s agent. "Grappling with short timelines, negotiations were reignited after the unfortunate injury to Pablo Maia. Our desire to fulfil this need is genuine," stated one source close to the deal.
Notably, Santos and Atletico Mineiro have shown interest, presenting additional layers of competition for São Paulo. Despite interest from these clubs, Mendes reportedly has shown more inclination to return to São Paulo, where he previously enjoyed success and created lasting connections.
The history between Mendes and São Paulo strengthens the narrative of his potential return. Having joined the club from the youth ranks, he made his mark and would bring considerable experience back to the team, particularly during this troubling time of injuries.
Despite fervent hopes from fans, the club's previous chief Carlos Belmonte flagged caution, asserting, "Right now, we have no active negotiations, but we are closely monitoring the situation. We don’t want to raise hopes prematurely." This sentiment reflects the club's cautious approach amid the unpredictability of transfer dealings.
While talk of Mendes returning has circulated, the dynamics remain fluid, with deadlines fast approaching. Any agreement would have to be swift, with the team aiming to possibly secure the midfielder’s return in time for the upcoming matches.
Meanwhile, alternative options within the current squad are being weighed, including Negrucci, who has been praised since his youth development at Cotia. Nonetheless, the preference remains to land Mendes if conditions align satisfactorily.
With the last date for transfers looming, flavoring the atmosphere with urgency, the São Paulo faithful remain optimistic. Many hope Mendes's return could bolster not just the midfield but instil fresh vision and energy within the squad as they navigate the remainder of the season.
Whether the deal materializes within the tight timeframe remains uncertain. Yet, Thiago Mendes holds the potential to not only remedy the gap left by Maia's absence but also reignite his previously celebrated career at São Paulo FC.