Betis set for €9m swoop after breakout season for defensive rock | OneFootball

Real Betis have formally notified Napoli of their intention to exercise the purchase option for defender Natan, formerly of Flamengo. The Spanish club is prepared to pay €9 million (about R$57.8 million at current exchange rates) to secure the permanent transfer of the Brazilian centre-back, following a strong season on loan.

Natan, who initially emerged at Flamengo, made his senior debut in 2020 and went on to appear in 18 matches, scoring once before his move to Red Bull Bragantino in 2021. Bragantino secured his transfer for R$22 million, and the defender subsequently moved to Napoli for approximately €10 million. After limited opportunities in Italy—21 appearances, including 17 starts last season—Natan was loaned to Betis in August 2024.

His spell in La Liga has been marked by consistent performances and significant playing time. Natan has featured for 3,915 minutes across all competitions for Betis, one of the highest totals in the squad. With Betis still to play the Conference League final against Chelsea, the Brazilian centre-back could surpass 4,000 minutes by season’s end.

Under the terms of his contract, Napoli retains Natan until 2028, but Betis’ willingness to meet the €9 million release clause should make the transfer straightforward. Both clubs will meet to finalize the agreement before the end of the month, as Betis had to notify Napoli by this deadline if they intended to buy.

For Flamengo, Natan’s successful progression through Europe provides further validation of their youth development. While his direct sale to Bragantino contained a percentage of future moves, his transfers have already delivered meaningful sums to Flamengo’s accounts.

The move also reflects Betis’ satisfaction with Natan’s impact in Spain. He arrived from Napoli after just a year in Serie A, but quickly established himself as a regular starter and a reliable presence in the heart of Betis’ defense. The club now looks to make his stay permanent as they plan for the coming season.

Source: Globo