João Paulo has completed his transfer from Botofogo to the Seattle Sounders, according to a report out of Brazil. The move solidifies the Sounders midfield and means they now have 10 of 11 MLS Cup starters under contract ahead of the 2021 season.
The 29-year-old Brazilian first came to the Sounders about a year ago, originally on a loan with an option to buy. The deadline to make that decision was reportedly this coming Friday. The Sounders had hoped to renegotiate the terms of that deal, but according to Brazilian press, Botofogo held firm on the originally agreed-upon $1.