The transfer of Danilo from Nottingham Forest to Botafogo is close to being finalised, with Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte reporting that an agreement is in place between all parties involved. Only minor details remain before the deal can be officially concluded.
According to the report, the 24-year-old midfielder is expected to sign a four-year deal with Botafogo, who will pay €22 million (approximately £18.5 million) including fixed fees, performance-related bonuses and add-ons.
Danilo has been the club’s top priority following Gregore’s departure to Al-Rayyan, and negotiations accelerated throughout Thursday.
Contrary to previous speculation, the move will not be part of a pathway to Lyon, also owned by John Textor’s Eagle Football group. Danilo’s contract will be exclusively tied to Botafogo, with no plans for a future switch to the French club.
Earlier this year, Danilo was close to joining Lyon, but the deal fell through due to financial restrictions imposed on the Ligue 1 side. With the French club no longer in a position to complete the signing, Botafogo emerged as the main option, with Lyon reportedly giving their blessing for the alternative move.
Initially, Danilo had reservations about joining Botafogo due to his strong connection with Palmeiras, where he rose through the ranks. However, following direct talks with Botafogo’s board after Gregore’s exit, the midfielder gave his approval, with the full agreement now directed solely to the Rio de Janeiro side.
Globo Esporte highlights that behind the scenes, the atmosphere is one of “total optimism”, with sources close to the deal already celebrating the outcome.
Botafogo now prepare to welcome a high-profile Premier League midfielder – a move that further strengthens Davide Ancelotti’s squad for the second half of the season.
