Palmeiras announced this Sunday the signing of Marlon Freitas from Santos, the first reinforcement of the team led by Abel Ferreira for the new season. The experienced 30-year-old midfielder signed a contract valid for three seasons. According to the Brazilian press, Botafogo accepted the proposal of 6 million dollars [pouco mais de 5 milhões de euros] for the transfer of 90 percent of the economic rights over the player. Marlon Freitas had the remaining ten percent, but gave up the amount to facilitate the transfer to the São Paulo club. «First is to thank God for the opportunity, for everything He has done in my life. It's a huge opportunity in my career, I'm very happy to be here and be part of the Palmeiras Family. I am convinced that this marriage has already worked, I am sure it will be a successful year for us», highlighted the new reinforcement. At Palmeiras, Marlon Freitas will have competition from Lucas Envagelista and Andreas Pereira who play in the same position. At Botafogo, the midfielder accumulated a total of 186 games in the last three seasons, leaving the club with the status of captain. Palmeiras starts preparing for the new season this Sunday and the debut of the new season is scheduled for the 10th, with a visit to Portuguesa, in the first round match of Paulistão.