FIFA imposes transfer ban on Brazil's Corinthians over unpaid debt to MLS club Philadelphia Union

FIFA has sanctioned Brazilian football club Corinthians with a transfer ban that prevents the registration of new players for up to three transfer windows. The sanction stems from an unpaid fee related to the 2024 signing of Venezuelan midfielder José Martínez from Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union. Corinthians reportedly paid only part of the roughly R$11 million agreed price, prompting the MLS club to lodge a complaint with FIFA.

The ban will remain in force until the outstanding amount is settled or a formal agreement is reached. The restriction adds to existing financial pressures on Corinthians, which also owes money to clubs such as Talleres and Midtjylland, and could hinder the team's roster planning for domestic and international competitions this season.