Corinthians eyes Marta as Orlando Pride battles to keep its NWSL legend | OneFootball

Corinthians isn't giving up on bringing Marta to its women's squad, but the club faces big challenges in this negotiation. The star, currently an Orlando Pride player in the NWSL, holds not only the title of the best player of all time but also such influence, which extends beyond soccer worldwide. Still, the will of the queen to return to Brazil puts the hope of seeing her with the black-and-white jersey alight again.

The queen of the NWSL and Pride, Marta, who had already cemented her status as the greatest player in history, kept making headlines with Orlando Pride. The queen led her team to a record-breaking NWSL season, winning 18 and earning 60 points, both records which made the Pride one of the best in the U.S.

But even at 38, the technical brilliance she displays and leadership on the pitch make her simply irreplaceable. For the NWSL, Marta is more than just a player, being an icon in terms of gate drawing, promotion, and exposure of the sport of women's soccer. This stature does not, however, dampen speculations of a probable return to her native country from heating up backstage as alluded to by local outlets.

Corinthians and its ambition to sign Marta

Corinthians has been very clear: They're not just interested in Marta, but they're determined to make it happen. Iris Sesso, the club's women's soccer director, has been leading negotiations with the player's camp since September, crafting a competitive offer that would entice both Marta and Orlando Pride.

However, the star's high salary and Pride's desire to extend her contract are still significant barriers, which Corinthians have to overcome smartly. The club, though, is counting on an emotional angle, given that Marta recently revealed her love for Corinthians-a team she has admired since her childhood.

Why Marta's signing will be a game-changer for Corinthians

Therefore, hiring Marta would be more than just a boost of technical inputs. It would, however, help Corinthians make the right strategic move to give much-required visibility and relevance to the women's game in Brazil. It will dent the marketing, jersey sales, and mass appeal of the fan base.

Her arrival would also solidify Corinthians as a global reference in women's soccer, bringing in new sponsorships and growing the club's fan base. The sight of Marta donning the iconic black-and-white jersey could inspire a new generation of players and further underscore the club's role in the advancement of women's soccer. Pride's resistance and financial challenges

There are plenty of reasons Orlando Pride shouldn't let go of Marta: not only is she the backbone of the team, but also an ambassador of NWSL, attracting new fans and securing a place among the most competitive leagues in the world.

The reality is, however, that financially Corinthians are struggling to bridge the gap between NWSL salaries and what Brazilian women's soccer pays. The club is fairly well resourced and ambitious, but matching U.S. standards is no small task.

Then there is the fact that Marta's contract with Pride runs to 2025, and the club's management has made it clear they intend to extend her stay.

One historic transfer which could happen

If Marta does wear Corinthians' jersey, it would be of colossal proportions. For the club would gain not only the greatest player in history but also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to push women's soccer in Brazil into new heights.

Meanwhile, the NWSL would be losing one of its brightest stars, which only helps fuel Orlando Pride's reluctance to let go of their queen. On the other hand, such a move in Brazil could fit Marta's legacy to even further contribute to growing the women's game at home.