Bahia signs World Cup reinforcement for attack and continues search for foreign defender

Bahia has signed Mateo Sanabria, an Argentine striker who played in the last Club World Cup for Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates. The 21-year-old is already in Salvador for medical examinations. If approved, he will sign a contract until December 2030.

The negotiations were only successful on the second attempt, as the initial loan offer didn't interest the Middle Eastern club. In addition to paying €5 million (R$31.8 million) for the permanent signing, the Esquadrão committed to paying another €2 million (R$12.7 million) if the targets were met.

Sanabria played 33 matches for Al Ain last season, scoring six goals and providing two assists in 1,356 minutes. He broke into the game at Lanús and later played for Central Córdoba. In 2024, he transferred to Al Ain.

The Tricolor board is still searching for a defender on the market. The main option is Colombian Alexis Pérez, who is a free agent after leaving Al Wasl, also in the United Arab Emirates. Last season, the 31-year-old defender played 41 games, scoring two goals and providing four assists.

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