Cedric Bakambu in advanced talks over move to Brazilian club Internacional

Cedric Bakambu is in advanced discussions with Internacional Porto Alegre over a move to Brazil, according to several Brazilian media outlets. The 35-year-old striker, who is a free agent after leaving Betis, could be set to play on a third continent during his career.

Reports including GZH say Internacional have opened negotiations with the former Villarreal forward and that the two parties are close to reaching an agreement.

Bakambu would join the Brazilian club without a transfer fee after spending three seasons with Betis. During his time in Andalusia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo international made 80 appearances in all competitions, scoring 15 goals and providing seven assists.

Internacional are looking to strengthen their squad after a difficult campaign in the Brazilian championship, which they finished in 16th place. The club, one of Brazil’s historic sides, could view Bakambu’s extensive experience across several leagues as a valuable addition to their attack.

A move to Brazil would represent another major step in Bakambu’s international career. He began his professional journey with Sochaux before moving abroad and playing for Bursaspor, Villarreal, Beijing Guoan, Marseille, Olympiacos, Galatasaray and Betis.

His career has already taken him across Europe and Asia. A transfer to Internacional would give him his first experience of South American football and would mean he had played on three different continents.

Bakambu would also find a familiar face in Brazil. He could be reunited with Yannick Bolasie, his compatriot and former team-mate with the Democratic Republic of the Congo national team. Bolasie currently plays for Chapecoense.

The proposed move comes after a difficult 2026 World Cup for Bakambu and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He started matches for the national side but failed to score during the tournament and faced criticism for his performances.

However, the striker’s international career may not yet be over. Bakambu has scored 21 goals for the Leopards and is just one goal short of the national-team record held by Dieumerci Mbokani.

A move to Internacional could therefore offer Bakambu one more significant club challenge. It may also provide him with an opportunity to regain momentum and claim the scoring record before the end of his international career.

Bakambu’s possible arrival would give Internacional an experienced forward with a career spanning several countries and major leagues. For the player, it would mark a new chapter after his departure from Betis and a chance to compete in a football environment he has never previously experienced.

No agreement has yet been officially confirmed, but Brazilian reports suggest negotiations are at an advanced stage and that Bakambu could soon begin the next phase of his career in South America.