Botafogo 'changes course' and bets on new names in the window

Botafogo continued its tradition of making significant changes to its squad during the mid-year transfer window. Amidst the simultaneous competition for the Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil, and Libertadores, the club acted decisively to adjust the group led by Davide Ancelotti.

The most significant move was the arrival of midfielder Danilo, signed from Nottingham Forest for €22 million (approximately R$147 million). The 24-year-old player was registered in the CBF's Daily Information Bulletin (BID) on Wednesday (July 23) and has already participated in his first training session with the squad, held at CT Lonier. The athlete was welcomed with the traditional "Polish corridor" and could make his debut on Saturday (July 26), at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), against Corinthians , at Nilton Santos, in the 17th round of the Brazilian Championship.

John Textor, owner of Botafogo's SAF (Photo: Vítor Silva/Botafogo)

In addition to Danilo, the club had strengthened its squad with players such as Cristhian Loor (goalkeeper), Kaio Fernando (defender), Álvaro Montoro (attacking midfielder), Joaquín Correa, and Arthur Cabral (forwards). Among these signings, Montoro cost US$9 million (approximately R$50 million at the time), while Cabral was acquired for €15 million (R$95.1 million), including bonuses.

Alongside the reinforcements, Botafogo made a series of departures. Jair, Igor Jesus, Serafim, Patrick de Paula, Gregore, Kauê, and Rwan Cruz left the squad. Midfielder Danilo Barbosa could also be traded, as he has lost his place in the team. These departures opened up room for adjustments within the group, allowing the new players to fit into SAF's technical and financial planning.

With Ancelotti's approval, the board also signed Jordan Barrera from Junior Barranquilla for US$4 million (R$21.8 million), which was considered a gamble internally. At the same time, the club began negotiations with defender Dantas from Novorizontino and has not ruled out further moves before the end of the window, which closes on September 2.

Danilo is expected to gain immediate space in midfield, especially given Marlon Freitas' suspension and Allan's condition, who is experiencing muscle pain. The former Palmeiras player's arrival, therefore, comes at a strategic time.

Depending on the progress of the competitions and the performance of the newcomers, new signings remain on the radar. Management is also looking for a defensive midfielder, a winger, and a center forward to strengthen the squad before the window closes.