US-based group moves to buy Santos FC

Brazilian soccer is facing one of its biggest shake‑ups in years. Saint Dominique Group, a U.S.-based investment firm, has officially begun proceedings to purchase Santos FC—one of Brazil’s most historic clubs—in a deal that could reach nearly €350 million (about $380 million) for an 80% stake. It would be the largest offer ever made for a Brazilian club.

Marcelo Teixeira, president of Santos, has already accepted the group’s initial non‑binding proposal. The club now has a 90‑day window to either move forward with the sale or walk away.

Deep dive into the numbers: the due diligence phase begins

Negotiations are currently in the due diligence stage—a comprehensive audit of the club’s financial, legal, operational, and commercial situation. The goal is to uncover any hidden risks before finalizing the purchase.

During this 90‑day period, Santos has agreed not to entertain any outside offers, giving the American group full exclusivity. The review will also examine Saint Dominique’s own financial strength to ensure it has the resources to complete the acquisition.

A joint statement from the club and SDC Sports LLC reads: “Santos Futebol Clube and SDC Sports LLC… have entered into an agreement granting exclusivity to begin discussions regarding a potential investment in a Football Corporation (SAF) that may be created by the Club.”

Santos wants to avoid another “Eagle Case”

Santos will also conduct its own investigation into the American firm to avoid repeating what many in Brazil call the “Eagle case”—a reference to Botafogo’s troubled sale to foreign investors, which left the club in worse shape than before.

To prevent a similar disaster, Santos has enlisted major financial heavyweights, including XP Investimentos and Rothschild & Co, to guide the process.

The club emphasized that the agreement remains non‑binding and is meant to allow a deep strategic and financial analysis before any final decision is made. The goal, according to the statement, is to strengthen the club’s operations, improve on‑field performance, elevate its brand, and accelerate development across both professional and youth soccer.

Neymar is not part of the deal—at least for now

Rumors had circulated for months that Neymar’s family—through his father, Neymar “Pai,” and their company NR Sports—was preparing a bid to take over Santos. Brazilian media even reported that the family sought legal and financial advice for a potential purchase.

But according to club president Marcelo Teixeira, no official negotiations ever took place.

Last year, the Neymar family acquired the rights to Pelé’s image, a move widely interpreted as a precursor to a future takeover of Santos. They also attempted to bring in foreign investors, but the plan never materialized.

For now, NR Sports and Neymar’s father are out of the picture. However, if the current due diligence process collapses, insiders say the family could re‑enter the race.

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