Santos nears agreement to sign midfielder Philippe Coutinho

Santos is moving forward with the signing of 34-year-old midfielder Philippe Coutinho. The player is expected to undergo medical examinations this Friday before signing a contract that runs through the end of the current season. Coutinho, who made seven appearances for Vasco earlier this season, terminated his previous contract to prioritize his mental health and has not played in a competitive match since February 14. This move follows the club clearing its transfer ban with assistance from NR Sports, the company owned by Neymar and his family. The signing aligns with a broader recruitment effort by Santos that has recently included Arthur, Rodinei, Lima, and Everton Cebolinha. Only the former Flamengo forward remains to make his official debut for the club.

• 8:22 PMYahoo Sports — 💣He joins Neymar: Santos add another star with a European past
• 7:27 PMYahoo Sports — Santos close in on signing Philippe Coutinho, details