With Palmeiras’ director of football Alexandre Mattos back from his honeymoon, announcements of new players pick up pace.
Matheus Fernandes
The 20 year-old defensive midfielder had a good season with Botafogo, making the spotlights with his interception and passing qualities. With caps in the Brazilian U17 and U20, the youngster last year went from promising to starting-eleven at Botafogo, showing he is ready for bigger tasks. Matheus has signed a five-year contract with Palmeiras and came at a price tag of approximately R$ 15 million (US$ 4 million).
Carlos Eduardo
The winger emerged at Goiás, playing in the second division of the Brazilian 
Championship. In June, he was sold to Egyptian team Pyramids, the same that purchased Keno. Carlos Eduardo is 22 years old, fast, with dribbling skills somewhat similar to Keno. It is unknown how much Palmeiras had to put on the table, but the amounts mentioned are considerable, especially when taking into account that the player has had a short and so far not very expressive career. The five-year contract also raised some eyebrows, but this has been standard procedure at Palmeiras as of late; only time will tell if this shot in the dark was a hit or miss.
Felipe Pires
Another flash from a clear sky. An apparently multi-talented attacker, most comfortable as a winger, but unknown to Brazilians as he left for Europe at a young age. Pires comes on a one-year loan from German club Hoffenheim. Previously, at Red Bull Salzburg, he won both League and Cup. Like Carlos Eduardo, this 23-year-old is fast-paced and strong, always moving in the offensive direction. Seems clear Scolari has a certain type of player in mind to replace injured Willian and cover a possible future transfer of Dudu.
Ricardo Goulart
The most expected announcement is yet to come. Multiple and diverse sources claim Palmeiras and the attacking midfielder are all set, and that only details remain to sort out between Palmeiras and Guangzhou Evergrande for a one-year loan agreement. Goulart played under Felipão in China and together they won the League three times, Ricardo Goulart being top scorer and MVP in 2015 and 2016.
Marcos Rocha
Rocha performed well at Palmeiras in 2018 and the club wishes to sign the fullback, but Atlético Mineiro want a hefty € 2 million for the player. Palmeiras have made a counter-offer, involving some cash and forward Papagaio on loan. Deal seems likely to go through.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
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by Augusto Anteghini Oazi and Kristian Bengtson
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 