Mandaca confirmed he has signed a pre-contract to join Grêmio in 2027 after helping Juventude secure promotion to Brazil’s Série A this season. The 25-year-old defensive midfielder provided an assist in the match that sealed Juventude’s return to the top division and openly acknowledged his agreement with the Tricolor.
“Yes, I am! Now I can say it. When the rumors came out back then, nothing had been finalized. I’ve always meant what I said, and I’m being honest now too: I’m going to Grêmio. Yes, I’ve signed a pre-contract for next year,” Mandaca told local media following the promotion-clinching game.
Grêmio had attempted to sign Mandaca during the ongoing season but faced financial and contractual hurdles. The club would have needed to pay compensation to Juventude, based in the Serra region, to secure the midfielder’s services before the end of the year. That effort did not materialize into an immediate transfer, but the pre-contract agreement ensures Mandaca’s move next year.
This promotion marks the second time Mandaca has helped Juventude ascend to Série A, having been part of their successful 2024 campaign as well. He initially joined Juventude on loan from Corinthians in 2023 and has since made 56 appearances for the club. Over that period, Mandaca scored 17 goals and provided 14 assists, a notable contribution for a defensive midfielder.
His performances in midfield have earned recognition beyond Juventude, leading to the deal with Grêmio. The Porto Alegre club, often referred to as the Tricolor, has a strong tradition in Brazilian football and is preparing its squad for the demands of the 2027 season with Mandaca’s arrival confirmed.
Mandaca’s role in Juventude’s promotion campaign this year was significant. Beyond the assist that helped clinch the top-flight return, his presence in midfield provided stability and creativity. Juventude has relied on his work rate and passing ability as they pushed for promotion, and his departure will leave a gap in the squad.
The move to Grêmio marks a step up for Mandaca as he joins one of Brazil’s more prominent clubs with continental ambitions. Grêmio’s interest in him reflected a desire to strengthen their midfield options ahead of next season. The pre-contract agreement was formally confirmed by Mandaca himself, removing lingering doubts about his destination.
For Juventude, Mandaca’s exit will come with the challenge of replacing a player who featured heavily in their recent rise. The club from the Serra region will now focus on retaining their top-flight status after promotion and rebuilding around their squad changes.
Mandaca’s journey from a loan player to a confirmed signing by Grêmio illustrates his development over the past three years. His goal and assist totals reflect a player capable of contributing in attack as well as performing defensive duties. The upcoming season at Grêmio will be an opportunity for him to establish himself further at a higher level.
The midfielder’s confirmation also ends speculation that had circulated since mid-2026 about his future. His straightforward admission post-promotion clarified his next career chapter, linking him to a club with a history of producing and attracting talented Brazilian footballers.
Mandaca’s agreement with Grêmio is now official for 2027, with no further details disclosed about the contract length or financial terms. Juventude’s promotion and Mandaca’s departure are the latest developments in Brazilian football’s dynamic transfer landscape this season.
According to Yahoo Sports.
