Brazilian Keeper on the Brink: Pinto Matheus Poised for Genoa Switch
8 January 2026
Transfer Watch: Pinto Matheus on the Verge of a Genoa Switch
The Brazilian goalkeeper Pinto Matheus of Al Nassr is on the verge of a move to another club during the current January window, after being sidelined from coach Jorge Jesus's plans.
Jesus continues to rely primarily on Saudi international Nawaf Al-Aqidi, while Pinto has appeared in two AFC Champions League matches, following some errors earlier this season.
Italian transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio reported that Genoa are very close to signing Pinto this winter.
He added on his official site that Pinto's move to the Italian club is likely to happen soon, after advanced negotiations.
Di Marzio explained that Genoa believes the Brazilian international is the ideal option to bolster their goalkeeping for the current campaign.
He noted that Pinto is pressing Al Nassr's management to accept the offer, hoping for a starter's role and a place in Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.
The report also states that Genoa sees Pinto as the perfect addition to guard their goal this season.
The latest chatter places the deal in an advanced stage following talks between the clubs, with both sides optimistic about a positive outcome.
If the move goes through, Pinto will trade Saudi palm trees for Genoa pine trees—talk about a climate change in a goalkeeper's career. And if he ends up in Italy, he might finally learn to defend a shot without needing a map and a compass.
