João Alencar

João Alencar Santos Paes da Costa (born 25 June 2007) is a Brazilian footballer who plays as a centre-back for Santos.

Club career Born in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Alencar joined Santos' youth setup in September 2017, aged ten. On 28 September 2023, he signed his first professional contract with the club, agreeing to a deal until August 2026.

Alencar began to play with the under-20 team in 2024, and made his first team debut with Peixe on 28 May 2025, coming on as a late substitute in a friendly match against RB Leipzig. On 22 September of that year, he further extended his link until June 2030.

In April 2026, Alencar was definitely promoted to the first team by head coach Cuca. On 19 August, he again renewed his contract, now until July 2031.

International career In June 2024, Alencar was called up to the Brazil national under-17 team for a tournament in Portugal, but had to withdraw from the competition due to an injury.

Career statistics

Honours Santos U20 2025