Jamal Lewis completed a last-minute move to São Paulo on the final day of the Brazilian transfer window, after failing to secure a transfer away from Newcastle United during the English summer window, which closed the previous Friday.
Lewis spent the previous season on loan at Watford, where the club had an option to sign him permanently but decided against it. Despite featuring for Newcastle in pre-season matches, Lewis was excluded from the first four matchday squads this season before making his way to Brazil to finalise his loan to São Paulo.
Newcastle have since confirmed the loan, noting that it is still pending international clearance. Both Newcastle and São Paulo have indicated that there is an option to convert the loan into a permanent transfer.
This development has generated buzz among fans online, particularly because Lewis’ contract with Newcastle is set to expire on June 30, 2025, the same date his loan spell ends. This timing could allow him to join São Paulo or another club on a free transfer when his Newcastle contract runs out.
Nevertheless, São Paulo will have the first opportunity to sign Lewis permanently, with an agreement framework already established. Upon his arrival in Brazil, Lewis shared his excitement on São Paulo’s official website, stating, “When I heard about this opportunity, I immediately told my agent that I wanted to come to Brazil. It’s an honour to play for such a historic club as São Paulo and to be their first-ever British player.
“I’m very excited to join a club that has won three World Cups. This is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I’m eager to meet the fans and contribute to the team’s success.”
