Athletico Paranaense began negotiations with Estrela da Amadora for the signing of 26-year-old Nigerian winger Abraham Marcus, submitting a formal offer of around €2.5 million.
The proposal was promptly rejected by the board led by Paulo Lopo for two main reasons.
Financially, Estrela da Amadora would have only received 60 percent of the amount, as FC Porto possesses the other 40 percent of the player’s economic rights.
From a sporting perspective, Marcus is considered an essential player for the remainder of the season as the club’s primary goal is to remain in the top division.
Having already made other significant sales, the club’s leadership chose to retain talent and prioritize its sporting objectives.
Marcus, who joined the club in July 2025 and has a contract until June 2028, has scored three goals and provided three assists in 20 Liga Portugal appearances this season.
The winger, who has been capped twice by the Super Eagles, has a current Transfermarkt market value of €800k.
