Fortaleza hand Vojvoda a derby lifeline with record signing | OneFootball

Fortaleza have received a timely boost ahead of Sunday’s Clássico Rei against Ceará with the registration of forward José Herrera completed, leaving him available for selection for the crucial league fixture, according to Globo. The 23-year-old Argentine’s paperwork was finalised in time for him to feature at Arena Castelão, where Juan Pablo Vojvoda’s side look to halt a run of disappointing results in the Série A.

Herrera’s arrival from Argentinos Juniors has been one of the headline moves of Fortaleza’s transfer window. The left-footed attacker, comfortable operating on either wing, scored five goals and provided two assists in 19 appearances for the Argentine club in 2025 before making the switch to Brazil. His registration comes alongside that of midfielder Matheus Pereira, though fellow new signing Adam Bareiro is yet to be cleared to play.

Fortaleza’s recruitment team have not shied away from heavy investment, with NE45 reporting that Herrera’s transfer required a fee of $2.4 million (approximately R$13 million), making him the second-most expensive acquisition in club history after Moisés. These additions signal the club’s determination to address attacking shortcomings that have hampered the squad in recent matches and to provide Vojvoda with greater variety in forward areas.

With Marinho serving a suspension for the derby following a red card against Vasco da Gama, Vojvoda’s attacking options have been under the spotlight. Herrera’s eligibility therefore comes at a critical juncture, with the club desperate to reignite its offensive threat. The Argentine will join a squad reeling from elimination in the Copa do Nordeste and sitting in the Série A’s relegation places, but one that has also shown resolve to rebound. Club captain Tinga and senior figures such as Joāo Ricardo and Lucero have sought to rally supporters in the build-up, underscoring the significance of the derby not just for city pride but also for league survival.

As Fortaleza prepare to face a Ceará team currently five points ahead in the table, all eyes will be on Herrera’s potential debut and the immediate impact the club’s new investment can deliver. With kick-off set for Sunday at 20:30 at the Arena Castelão, Vojvoda’s reshaped attack will need to respond to the growing pressure and expectations from a fanbase eager for a turnaround.