Palmeiras Eyes Al-Nassr Midfielder Otávio Amid Transfer Market Moves
As Palmeiras prepares for the likely departure of Richard Ríos to Benfica, the Brazilian club has set its sights on Al-Nassr midfielder Otávio, who is reportedly no longer in the plans of the Saudi Arabian side.
The 30-year-old Portuguese-born Brazilian, known for his versatility across the midfield, is being considered as a potential reinforcement for Abel Ferreira’s squad. According to O Globo, Palmeiras is exploring a loan deal with an option to buy, as Otávio’s current salary reportedly among the higher brackets in Saudi football may be prohibitive for a permanent move at this stage.
Versatile Midfielder with European Pedigree
Otávio enjoyed a standout run with FC Porto, where he spent eight seasons before transferring to Al-Nassr in 2023. In his debut season in Saudi Arabia, he recorded 11 goals and 7 assists in 44 matches, marking the most prolific scoring campaign of his career.
However, his form has dipped in the current season, with just 1 goal and 8 assists across 40 appearances. Despite this, his ability to play in multiple midfield roles including as an attacking midfielder, right winger, and even second striker remains a key attraction for Palmeiras, especially amid a demanding fixture schedule.
Competition and Transfer Details
Otávio is under contract at Al-Nassr until 2025, with a total record of 87 games, 12 goals, and 15 assists for the club. His time at Porto, between 2016 and 2023, saw him contribute 7 goals and 13 assists in 46 appearances during his final two seasons there.
Other Saudi Pro League clubs notably Al-Ahli and Al-Qadisiyah have also expressed interest in the player, who is reportedly available for transfer. A return to Brazil would mark a homecoming more than a decade after Otávio left Internacional in 2014, where he made only 16 senior appearances before heading to Europe.
Palmeiras Squad Planning Underway
If signed, Otávio would join a Palmeiras midfield currently anchored by Raphael Veiga and Lucas Evangelista, with the potential to become a starter given his international experience and tactical flexibility.
The São Paulo-based club is expected to accelerate talks should the Richard Ríos deal be finalized in the coming days. No official offer has been confirmed, but sources close to the negotiations suggest that Palmeiras is prepared to structure a financially balanced offer, likely involving salary sharing or staged payments in a loan agreement.
