Reports began circulating out of Brazil on Monday morning that Columbus Crew SC will acquire Sao Paulo midfielder Artur on loan for 2017 with an option to buy.
The 20-year old Artur is a defensive midfielder and has made four senior appearances for Sao Paulo and was recently training for the reserves. The move appears similar to last year’s acquisition of Cristian Martinez, who was brought in on loan as a 19 year old.
Crew SC has focused on adding players on defense and central midfield this offseason. Artur would join a crowded midfield with Mohammed Abu and Abuchi Obinwa joining the team this offseason.