Sao Paulo suspend goalkeeper Jean

RIO DE JANEIRO - Sao Paulo have suspended the contract of goalkeeper Jean Fernandes, who is facing charges of domestic violence in the United States.

In a statement issued late on Thursday, Sao Paulo said the 24-year-old would be free to join another club during the 12-month ban, under certain conditions.

The six-time Brazilian Serie A champions added that Jean could have his contract annulled following the suspension.

Jean has been accused of assaulting his partner, Milena Bemfica, while they were on vacation in Florida last month.

Police in Orange County arrested the footballer after Bemfica posted videos on Instagram in which she alleged Jean punched her in the face during an argument.

A subsequent police report said Bemfica's face was swollen and that she had bruises under both eyes.

Jean has been released on bail but is forbidden from contacting Bemfica and can only communicate with his daughters through third parties.

A former Brazil U-20 player, Jean has made 18 first-team appearances for Sao Paulo since his 2018 move from boyhood club Bahia.