Neymar Partnership Formed as Free Agent Midfielder Signs Short-Term Contract
Santos FC completed the signing of free agent midfielder Philippe Coutinho on a short-term contract running until the end of the season. The player joined the Brazilian club on September 15, 2026, after remaining without a team following his departure from Vasco da Gama in February 2026.
The 34-year-old midfielder brings extensive top-level experience to the squad, having scored 54 goals in 201 games for Liverpool before a £142m move to Barcelona in 2018. His career also features spells at Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Aston Villa, and Al-Duhail.
Coutinho Reunites With Neymar in Santos Attack
Adding a creative playmaker allows Santos FC to link the midfielder directly alongside Neymar in central attacking areas. This move marks the first time the duo will play together at club level after previously sharing the pitch for the Brazil national team.
Midfield Depth Secured for Santos Campaign
The signing provides additional options across the central midfield positions for the remainder of the season. Coutinho strengthens squad rotation down the stretch, bringing recent match experience from his 81 appearances during his time at Vasco da Gama.
Zero Transfer Fee Agreement Following Vasco Exit
Because the midfielder left Vasco da Gama in February 2026 as a free agent, Santos FC completed the deal without paying a transfer fee. The contract covers only the remainder of the current campaign. BBC Sport / Ffion Wynne.