Futsal Roots and English Interest: The Profile of Souza That Entices FC Porto

João Victor de Souza Menezes, known simply as Souza in the football world, is a full-back who has caught the eye of FC Porto. His career trajectory, blending quality with youth, explains the Dragons' interest. His journey includes a futsal background, a rise through Santos' ranks, a stint at Tottenham, and participation in a talented Brazilian generation at the 2023 U-17 World Cup.

As A BOLA reported, there are currently no formal discussions between FC Porto's SAD (Sociedade Anónima Desportiva) and Tottenham. The prevailing sentiment is that FC Porto will wait until the end of the transfer window to pursue targets identified by the club's structure and approved by Farioli. In Souza's case, a loan deal with an option to buy could be structured, allowing FC Porto to secure the promising talent in the future, should his performance warrant it.

Turning 20 last June, the defender was born in Mauá, São Paulo. He began his career in futsal with Juventus-SP before transitioning to eleven-a-side football at Santos, where he completed his entire youth development. This futsal foundation is evident in his playing style, characterized by quick execution, comfort in tight spaces, and confidence on the ball – common traits among full-backs and wingers developed in Brazil.

His development at "Peixe" (Santos' nickname) was both rapid and remarkable. By 2023, he was already one of the standout figures in the youth ranks, even captaining the U-17 team – a testament to his leadership and competitive standing at a club renowned for nurturing talent. His senior team debut came in 2025, entering as a second-half substitute in a 2-2 draw against Mirassol in the Campeonato Paulista, quickly transforming from a promising youngster into a highly sought-after asset in the international market.

His profile was further elevated by his participation in the 2023 U-17 World Cup. Souza was part of a Brazilian squad featuring future stars like Estêvão, Vítor Reis, Lorran, Rayan, and Kauã Elias. Despite their individual talent, recognized globally, Brazil was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Argentina. Germany ultimately won the tournament, beating France on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regular time.

It was against this backdrop of increasing value, and with a consolidated status in Santos' first team in 2025 (29 games, one goal, and two assists), that Tottenham moved to sign him in January 2026. The English club invested approximately 15 million euros, after an initial offer was rejected by Santos, and signed the player to a contract until 2031.

However, his experience in London didn't quite meet expectations. Adapting to the Premier League, a division demanding intense physical exertion, tactical discipline, and immediate impact, proved challenging. Strong competition at left-back and his youth limited his opportunities, resulting in just four appearances for Tottenham's senior team – two as a starter and two coming off the bench.

Despite the lack of continuity in England, Souza remains a player with significant market appeal. His profile as a modern full-back, boasting strong technical skills and experience in youth national teams, makes him an attractive target for FC Porto.