Report: Artur to return to Brazil after Sao Paulo reject Crew SC offer

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS:Report

It looks like Artur’s time with Columbus Crew SC could be coming to an end.

It was reported by multiple Brazilian outlets this week that Sao Paulo FC rejected a bid from Crew SC to acquire the 21-year-old midfielder permanently following the conclusion of his season-long loan to Columbus. The reports said that they turned down Crew SC’s $1.5 million offer for half of Artur’s rights.

A box-to-box midfielder, Artur had three assists in 24 appearances and 19 starts this regular season. He emerged as a key player for Columbus down the stretch, scoring a goal in the Eastern Conference Semifinals against New York City FC and playing a key role in the club’s run to the Eastern Conference Championship series.

Crew SC announced on Friday while make their end of season roster moves that they were engaged with Sao Paulo in discussions about permanently acquiring Artur.

Artur posted a message to Twitter on Saturday thanking Columbus fans, players and coaches for their support throughout 2017.