Persebaya Complete Signing of Gledson Paixao as Foreign Squad Nears Full Capacity

Persebaya Surabaya have strengthened their squad by signing Brazilian defensive midfielder Gledson Paixao on a one-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 Super League season. The experienced midfielder becomes the club's eighth new foreign arrival during the current transfer window.

The addition of Gledson brings Persebaya's foreign player count to 10, leaving only one available international slot under league regulations. Alongside several new recruits, the club has also retained Francisco Rivera and Risto Mitrevski as part of its core squad for the upcoming campaign.

Gledson is already familiar with Indonesian football after spending last season with PSM Makassar. His move to Surabaya also reunites him with Portuguese head coach Bernardo Tavares, who previously brought him to Indonesia and has now secured his services once again at a different club.

The Brazilian midfielder is no stranger to Persebaya either, having experienced the intense atmosphere created by the club's supporters while playing as an opponent. That experience, combined with the opportunity to join one of Indonesia's biggest clubs, convinced him to accept the move.

As Persebaya prepares for another competitive season while approaching its centenary milestone, Gledson is determined to help the Green Force compete for top honors. The club's ambition is to challenge at the top of the standings, and the new signing is expected to play an important role in achieving those objectives throughout the season.