Lucas Veríssimo Returns to Santos FC

Santos FC announced on Tuesday the permanent signing of defender Lucas Veríssimo, bringing the 30-year-old back to the club he began his professional career with. Veríssimo joins from Al-Duhail of Qatar, signing a three-year contract with Menino da Vila.

Veríssimo’s Career Path

Originally from Jundiaí, Veríssimo came through the Santos academy, making his professional debut in 2016. He quickly established himself as a key player, featuring in 190 matches for the club and contributing seven goals and three assists. He was part of the team that won the Paulista Championship in 2016 and reached the 2020 Copa Libertadores final.

Prior to his return, Veríssimo had spells with Benfica in Portugal, Corinthians in Brazil, and Al-Duhail and Al-Wakrah in Qatar. He was on loan at Al-Wakrah from Al-Duhail, making 14 appearances before his transfer was finalized. His last match for Al-Wakrah was on February 27th, 2026.

Addressing Defensive Needs

The signing addresses a critical require for Santos, as coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda has been grappling with defensive vulnerabilities. The team has conceded 17 goals in just three matches this season. The current starting center-back pairing is Adonis Frías and Luan Peres, with Zé Ivaldo as a backup. The departure of Alexis Duarte to Libertad-PAR and João Basso’s resignation further highlighted the need for reinforcement.

Player’s Statement

“I’m particularly happy and happy to return home. I hope to repay everything that Santos has already done for me. I thank Marcelo Teixeira, Alexandre Mattos and the coaching staff for all their effort and trust,” Veríssimo stated on the club’s social media channels.

Transfer Details

According to ESPN, the transfer fee is approximately €4 million (R$24.5 million). The move was facilitated by the tense situation in Qatar due to ongoing conflicts and bombings in the region, prompting Veríssimo’s desire to return to Brazil for family reasons ESPN. Santos agreed a deal to sign Lucas Veríssimo from Al-Duhail, and the defender will sign a three-year contract with an option for a further year OneFootball.

Sixth Signing of the Season

Veríssimo is the sixth addition to the Santos squad this season, joining attackers Gabriel Barbosa, Rony, and Moisés, as well as midfielders Gabriel Menino and Christian Oliva.