One of the most important objectives early this offseason for Garth Lagerwey was finding a way to bring back João Paulo following their decision to deny the Brazilian’s purchase option. After several weeks of what we are told have been extensive negations, Sounder at Heart was able to confirm Botafogo and the Sounders are closing in on an agreement for a permanent transfer of the 29-year-old defensive midfielder.
Although we have been unable to find a secondary source on some of the details, this is what we know so far: João Paulo will remain a Designated Player — at least for now — and he’ll be signed through 2023 with a club option for an additional year.