Independiente Sign Leo Godoy for $2 Million from Athletico Paranaense

Independiente have completed the signing of right-back Leo Godoy from Athletico Paranaense, as reported by Lance!. The Argentine club will pay $2 million for the 30-year-old defender, who has signed a contract through the end of 2028.

Godoy had been on loan at Santos, which chose not to activate its purchase option and allowed him to leave without objection. The transfer will be paid in four installments of $500,000 each. With this deal, Athletico recoups part of the $3 million it invested to sign him from Estudiantes in January 2024.

During his short stay at Santos, Godoy made 18 appearances and scored one goal. Coach Cleber Xavier had already decided to move forward with Aderlan and Escobar (as an emergency option), while JP Chermont could also be transferred in this window.

Godoy’s time at Athletico fell short of expectations. Although he arrived with a strong reputation after three solid seasons in La Plata, he lost his spot in the starting lineup and was replaced by makeshift options like Erick and Canobbio. In total, he played 42 games, starting 32, with one goal and four assists.

The move marks a return to Argentina for Godoy at a pivotal moment in his career. For Independiente, after again winning the struggle with Boca for a coveted player, it’s a calculated move to bring in an experienced full-back capable of contributing immediately.