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Mexico City – Club América is on the verge of securing a replacement for midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo, with Brazilian player Vinicius Lima emerging as the leading candidate. Negotiations with Fluminense are reportedly advanced, with a loan deal including a mandatory purchase option mirroring the recent transfer of Raphael Veiga.
The Mexican transfer window is set to close in just two days, adding urgency to América’s pursuit of Lima. According to reports from Brazilian newspaper ‘Globo,’ an agreement is expected today, potentially leading to an official announcement by tomorrow. The deal is structured as a loan with an obligation to buy, a similar arrangement to the one that brought Veiga to the club.
While sharing a position with Fidalgo, Lima offers a more attacking profile. The 29-year-old has spent the majority of his career in Brazil, establishing himself as a key starter for Fluminense. He was a member of the Fluminense squad that won the Copa Libertadores in the 2022/2023 season, demonstrating his experience in high-stakes competitions.
Lima’s potential arrival would make him the third Brazilian player currently on América’s roster. This marks a shift in the club’s recruitment strategy, as they had gone five years without signing a Brazilian player prior to the recent acquisition of Dourado. The coaching staff appears to be exerting greater influence on player signings, a development that could signal a new era for the club.
Fluminense is set to receive a financial compensation of US$150,000 (approximately R$780,000 at the current exchange rate) for the loan transfer. Importantly, América-MEX will cover 100% of Lima’s salary during his time with the club. The purchase option included in the agreement is set at a pre-determined value, providing Fluminense with potential future revenue from the deal.
Despite the progress in negotiations, the transfer is not yet finalized, with final adjustments still being discussed between the two clubs. However, all indications point towards a swift resolution, allowing América to bolster their midfield before the window closes.
The move for Lima comes as Fidalgo has departed Club América for Real Betis on a deal extending to 2030. The club has clearly prioritized finding a suitable replacement quickly, recognizing the importance of maintaining a strong midfield presence.
The acquisition of Lima represents a strategic move for América, adding a proven performer with Libertadores experience to their squad. His attacking capabilities could provide a new dimension to their midfield, while his familiarity with Brazilian football could prove valuable as the team navigates the Clausura 2026 season. The club will be hoping that Lima can seamlessly integrate into the team and fill the void left by Fidalgo’s departure.
The loan structure, with a mandatory purchase option, allows América to assess Lima’s performance before committing to a permanent transfer. This approach mitigates risk while providing the club with the opportunity to secure a talented player who fits their tactical needs. The financial terms of the deal also appear favorable for Fluminense, who will receive both a loan fee and have their player’s salary covered during his time in Mexico.
The increased influence of the coaching staff in player recruitment is a noteworthy development for América. This suggests a more cohesive approach to team building, with the technical staff having a greater say in identifying and acquiring players who align with their tactical vision. The addition of a third Brazilian player further demonstrates the club’s willingness to explore new markets and diversify their squad.
