Philippe Coutinho set to join Santos

Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho is nearing a return to professional football by signing with Santos. The 34-year-old has been a free agent since February 2026, following his departure from Vasco da Gama after a seven-month tenure. Coutinho, who previously played for clubs including Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, is now expected to join a squad that includes Neymar and Rodinei.

Reports regarding the contract duration remain slightly inconsistent. One source indicates a short-term agreement lasting three months, while other reports state that the parties have reached a deal extending until the summer of 2027. Regardless of the exact duration, the player is scheduled to undergo mandatory medical examinations immediately before finalizing the contract and joining team training sessions. Once the formalities are completed, the move will reunite Coutinho with his long-time friend Neymar in the Santos lineup.