There was some initial confusion in Brazil over how impending Tottenham signing Souza handled his economic rights. However, Brazilian journalists have now clarified the situation.
The final outcome reflects very positively on the player and his attitude towards the game in general.
Lucas Barros and Laura Marcello, from local outlet Diário do Peixe, report that Santos completed their side of Souza’s transfer to Tottenham on Sunday for €15m.
Santos originally owned 75% of the player’s economic rights, while Souza held the remaining 25%. That isn’t unusual in Brazil, where percentages are often held by player’s families, agents and even unrelated business people.
When a transfer is agreed, the percentages are usually shared. For example, if a player moves for €10m, and his family have 25% of the transfer rights then they’ll receive €2.5m.
In the case of Souza moving to Tottenham, the 19-year-old decided to give up his 25% share. As a result, Santos will receive the full value of the deal, getting €15m from the deal.
The report explains that this decision came from affection rather than obligation. Souza wanted to leave Santos on good terms. It’s the club that developed him, and he wouldn’t be moving to Tottenham without their help.
In addition, he made it clear that he hopes Santos will reinvest the money into the academy structure, helping future youth players.
Practical steps for move to Tottenham
Meanwhile, the practical steps are already underway. Souza is travelling to London this afternoon for his Tottenham transfer procedures. He will undergo medical tests and complete the remaining formalities of the transfer.
Overall, the clarified details add an extra layer to his exit. The €15m move now reads not only as a transfer, but as a respectful and carefully handled goodbye.
That will ensure a lot of goodwill follows Souza to Tottenham, rather than snipes about him chasing money. Such a scenario can only benefit Spurs and a quick adaptation.
