Former Portsmouth loanee Gustavo Caballero’s future takes fresh twist after intriguing development
Gustavo Caballero netted one goal in 12 appearances on loan for Pompey last season.
Gustavo Caballero has been identified as an ‘important player’ for Santos amid the Brazilian club’s ongoing financial problems.
And this could cast doubt over a potential departure and hopes of a return to European football.
The winger, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Fratton Park, has been re-registered at the Estadio Urbano Caldeira, allowing him to feature for the remainder of the Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A campaign.
This prompted a rise in Caballero’s stock, which has reportedly triggered some fresh enquiries from clubs elsewhere as speculation over his future continues to mount.
Former Pompey loanee’s future still unclear
News over potential interest in the winger comes with Santos still in financial difficulties.
Peixe have been placed under a three-window transfer ban by FIFA for failing to pay French side Monaco R$12 million following the signing of Jean Lucas.
In the meantime, however, Caballero has returned to action in Brazil’s top-flight having been allowed to re-register despite Santos still under a transfer ban.
The forward played 27 minutes off the bench in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Chapecoense on Sunday and represented his first outing for the club following the conclusion of his Pompey loan stay.
And Caballero’s importance has been highlighted by head coach Alexi Stival, who believes the winger still has a key role to play at Estadio Urbano Caldeira despite his future still uncertain.
Speaking Brazilian news outlet Terra, he said: ‘Caballero came on playing as a fourth man on the right and he did well, he participated in the plays.
‘He gave us what we needed - more speed at that moment - and I think he did well, he improved our situation.
‘Obviously, it's been a short amount of time, but he is an important player for us. We have to have patience and calm because he is going to help us out a lot.’
Why Pompey didn’t return for Gustavo Caballero
Caballero’s future remains up in the air, with the player’s agent, Diego Serrati, stating it was his intention to get the winger back into European football following his loan stint at Fratton Park.
The Paraguay international netted one goal in 14 Championship appearances for the Blues, who opted against triggering his £2.5m exclusive release clause which was inserted into his contract when he completed his temporary switch in February.
Pompey believed the valuation wasn’t a true representation of the forward’s market value and let the clause deadline pass without taking any action.
John Mousinho’s men currently have their sights set on a potential homecoming for Hull City winger Abu Kamara.
Confidence is growing at Fratton Park that a deal can be agreed, with the 23-year-old also open to the move.