West Ham made Julen Lopetegui official as the new coach, replacing David Moyes. The Spaniard, former coach of that country, will take the reins from July 1 and could add a new Brazilian to the squad for next season.
The London team is close to hiring Fabrício Bruno, a Flamengo central defender who previously played for Red Bull Bragantino and Cruzeiro. This is reported by the press, both in Brazil and Europe, who talk about a five-year contract.
READ MORE
++ Video: Gabriel Magalhães goes to the Corinthians game by subway and sings with the fans
++ 40-year-old Dante signs one-year extension for ninth season with OGC Nice
++ FA charges Lucas Paquetá with betting violations
According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the footballer has already accepted the conditions of the transfer and the Hammers management is still working on reaching an agreement. At 28 years old, it would be a unique opportunity for the defender to take the step in his career towards Europe.
🚨⚒️ West Ham are in advanced talks to sign Brazilian centre back Fabrício Bruno from Flamengo.
He’s in the shortlist as @ExWHUEmployee called, talks are now progressing to make it happen.
Fabrício Bruno already accepted the move, #WHUFC director Tim Steidten is working on it. pic.twitter.com/jyN4vIpu2X
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 22, 2024
Although he did not enter the list of those called up by Brazil for the Copa América 2024, Fabrício Bruno was in the friendlies played in March. He started both the 1-0 victory against England at Wembley and the 3-3 draw against Spain at the Santiago Bernabéu.
If his arrival at West Ham is confirmed, he could share a dressing room with Lucas Paquetá, who has been together for two years since he finished ninth in the last Premier League season. Although the midfielder could leave in the next transfer window, with rumors linking him to none other than Manchester City, the last champion of the tournament.
Lopetegui: “I am very happy”
In his first statements after announcing his signing, Lopetegui said he was “very happy to be part of the future of this great club.” “We are going to do everything possible to help the Club and the team reach the best level and achieve our goals. “I assure the fans that they will be key to all our achievements,” said the 57-year-old coach.
“I feel very happy to be part of the future of this big Club”
Listen to Lopetegui’s first words as Head Coach of West Ham United 🗣️
— West Ham United (@WestHam) May 23, 2024
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Watch the first six episodes on Sambafoot’s YouTube channel. Don’t miss the series finale releasing soon!
