Rodrigo Caio rejects loan move to Atletico Madrid

Rodrigo Caio, the Brazilian midfielder for Sao Paulo, has declined the opportunity to play on loan at Atletico Madrid next season. Sao Paulo issued a statement today (Friday) backing his decision. Previously, Caio's €12.5m transfer to Valencia was cancelled at the last minute, and he was set to move to Atletico on loan with the option to buy. He had already passed his medical examination.

Atleti wanted a loan deal with an option to buy

For Atleti, it was crucial that the deal be structured as a loan with the option to buy after one season. Due to concerns about Caio's physical condition and knee problems that caused Valencia to withdraw their interest, Atletico wanted to ensure he would be in optimal physical shape.

Non-EU status delayed the contract signing

Another factor that delayed the contract signing was Caio's non-EU status. He is waiting to obtain an Italian passport, which would allow him to avoid occupying a foreigner space at Atletico.

Sao Paulo's statement stated, "In a meeting on Friday afternoon between the player Rodrigo Caio, the president of Sao Paulo Carlos Miguel Aidar, and the vice-president Atraide Gil Guerreiro, Rodrigo Caio expressed his desire to not be transferred on loan to European football this season. The club agrees with the footballer's decision."