Natan de Souza has secured his long-term future at "Real Betis" after the Spanish club exercised their €9 million purchase option from "Napoli". The Brazilian defender, who initially joined on loan last season, has now signed a contract that will keep him at the club until June 2030.
The 23-year-old center-back impressed during his loan spell, making 52 appearances and scoring twice for the Seville-based side. His performances were instrumental in helping "Betis" qualify for European competition and reach the UEFA Conference League final.
Interestingly, Natan's contract is now among the longest at the club, matching the 2030 expiration dates of teammates Johnny Cardoso, Cucho Hernández, and newly signed goalkeeper Alvaro Valles.
"Real Betis Balompié has executed the purchase option included in the loan agreement reached last season with SSC Napoli for Natan," the club stated in their official announcement.
The Brazilian began his professional career in the youth system of CR Flamengo, where he was part of their 2020 Brazilian championship-winning squad before moving to Europe. His strong performances last season didn't go unnoticed in continental competition either – Natan earned a spot in the UEFA Conference League's team of the season.
By making this move permanent, "Betis" clearly demonstrates their faith in the young defender. Will he continue to develop into one of La Liga's premier center-backs over the course of his seven-year contract? The club's management certainly seems to think so.
