NYCFC adds forward Luighi from Brazilian powerhouse Palmeiras

New York City FC added some potential firepower on Tuesday, acquiring Brazilian forward Luighi Hanri Sousa Santos on loan from Campeonato Brasileiro Série A side Palmeiras. The 20-year-old, simply known as Luighi, will be with the MLS club for the remainder of the 2026 season and the deal comes with an option to purchase his contract at the end of the season. NYCFC paid Palmeiras $300,000 for the loan, according to multiple reports, and should the club trigger its option to purchase Luighi’s contract, it would cost them $6 million, with the Brazilian club retaining 20 percent of his economic rights in any future sale. Luighi was signed under MLS’ U22 Initiative and his contract with Palmeiras runs through December 2029. New New York City FC addition Luighi poses in his new jersey at the cl