A negotiation between Claudinho and Santos was reported by journalist Ricardo Martins on January 4. According to ESPN, Claudinho is viewed favorably by Santos, but the club has not yet made an official proposal to Al Sadd. Claudinho's salary is described as exceeding the financial capacity of most Brazilian clubs, and his market value also exceeds Santos' financial capacity, meaning only a loan deal would be viable. A move to Brazil at this time is considered to be very difficult. Al Sadd signed Claudinho for more than R$ 120 million in January 2025.

Former Zenit midfielder Claudinho, a 28-year-old Brazilian-Russian who currently plays for Al-Sadd, may move to Santos on loan. An agreement on personal terms has been reached between the Brazilian club and the player, and negotiations with the Qatari club are in the final stage. The current contract Claudinho has with Al-Sadd is valid until 2029. He joined the Qatari side in January 2025 and has scored 2 goals and provided 5 assists in 7 Stars League appearances this season. He has not been capped by the Brazil national team. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is €13.00m.